As Vietnam grapples with increasing natural disasters and extreme weather conditions, the city of Dong Ha in Quang Tri province is taking proactive measures to enhance its disaster response capabilities. Following the severe impact of storm No. 3 (YAGI) and subsequent flooding in September 2024, the Chairman of the City People’s Committee issued Directive 07/CT-UBND on April 15, 2025, outlining a comprehensive strategy for natural disaster prevention and control, as well as search and rescue operations for the year ahead.
According to the directive, all levels of government, departments, and agencies in the city are required to focus on several key tasks. These include reviewing and updating disaster prevention plans, integrating disaster management strategies into socio-economic development plans, and ensuring that the organizational structure of disaster response units remains unaffected by any administrative changes.
In light of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which are expected to complicate weather patterns, the directive emphasizes the importance of preparedness. "We must be proactive in our approach to disaster management," stated the Chairman. The city aims to enhance its capacity to respond to disasters effectively, ensuring the safety of both people and property.
In a related effort, the Central Power Corporation (EVNCPC) conducted a disaster prevention and search and rescue drill in Quang Tri province. This drill, held on April 16, 2025, was designed to improve readiness for electrical grid incidents caused by natural disasters and to minimize damage. The simulated scenario involved storm No. 20 making landfall in Quang Tri, with winds reaching levels of 11-12 and gusts up to level 14.
During the drill, which began at approximately 01:30 AM, the storm caused widespread power outages across Dong Ha and other areas. In response, the Quang Tri Power Company convened its disaster response committee to assess the damage and implement recovery plans. By noon, teams had identified significant damage, including the collapse of a key power pole due to severe erosion.
Mr. Nguyen Huu Khanh, Deputy General Director of EVNCPC, emphasized the drill's importance, stating, "This exercise is crucial for enhancing our ability to respond to natural disasters and ensuring that we can restore power safely and efficiently." The teams quickly mobilized resources to erect a temporary pole to restore electricity to affected customers.
Moreover, the drill included a first aid competition, showcasing the importance of immediate medical response in disaster scenarios. This aspect of the training underscored the need for preparedness in all facets of disaster response, from infrastructure repair to medical assistance.
Mr. Ha Sy Dong, the Acting Chairman of Quang Tri province, praised the efforts of EVNCPC, noting, "The proactive planning and execution of this drill reflect a strong commitment to disaster preparedness in a region frequently affected by natural calamities. I believe that through exercises like this, our capacity to manage disasters will improve significantly."
The directive from the City People’s Committee also includes specific tasks for various departments and agencies. The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is tasked with advising on disaster management strategies, while the city’s press and communication center is responsible for disseminating timely information regarding disaster forecasts and response efforts.
As the region braces for more unpredictable weather patterns, the emphasis on community awareness and education about disaster preparedness is paramount. The directive calls for ongoing public information campaigns to raise awareness about natural disaster risks and safety measures.
Furthermore, the city plans to strengthen its communication systems to ensure that information about disasters is relayed efficiently to both authorities and the public. This includes improving the registration and inspection of fishing vessels and other watercraft to ensure safety during storms.
As Vietnam faces the dual challenges of climate change and extreme weather, the steps taken by Dong Ha city and Quang Tri province exemplify a growing recognition of the need for robust disaster management frameworks. With the implementation of these plans, local authorities aim to enhance their resilience against future natural disasters, safeguarding the lives and properties of their residents.
In the wake of these preparations, the community is encouraged to participate actively in disaster readiness initiatives. Local residents are reminded that their involvement is crucial in ensuring safety and minimizing damage during emergencies. The collaborative efforts between government agencies and the community are vital for effective disaster response.
As Vietnam continues to navigate the complexities of climate change and natural disasters, the commitment to improving disaster preparedness and response capabilities remains a top priority for local governments. The recent actions in Quang Tri serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, highlighting the importance of proactive planning and community engagement in disaster management.
