The devastating aftermath of Typhoon Yagi, which made landfall on September 7, 2024, unleashing winds of up to 126 mph, continues to develop across northern Vietnam, with the death toll climbing to 233 as rescue efforts press on in hard-hit mountainous regions.
Flash floods and landslides have left a trail of destruction, wiping out entire communities and severely damaging critical infrastructure. As international aid pours in, the country faces a long road to recovery amid ongoing storms and rising rivers.
In the province of Lao Cai, the hamlet of Lang Nu was completely swept away by raging floodwaters, claiming 48 lives and leaving 39 residents still unaccounted for. Rescue operations have been hampered by extensive damage to roads leading to the remote area, making it difficult to bring in heavy equipment needed for search and recovery efforts.
The typhoon’s impact has been felt far beyond Lao Cai. In Cao Bang province, a landslide pushed a bus, car, and several motorcycles into a swollen river, resulting in 21 confirmed deaths with 10 people still missing.
The capital city of Hanoi has also experienced severe flooding, with water levels reaching neck-high in some neighborhoods.
Bakery owner Mai Anh left the area with her family to take refuge at her parents’ home but came back on Thursday to assess the condition of her shop. Upon her return, she discovered over two feet of water remaining inside. She noted that conducting business under such circumstances was impossible, as the inventory in her store had been completely ruined.
The widespread flooding and landslides have taken a heavy toll on Vietnam’s industrial sector as well. Factories in northern provinces like Haiphong, home to electric car company VinFast and various electronic manufacturers including Apple parts suppliers, have suffered significant damage.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies estimates that while 95% of businesses in Haiphong were expected to resume some activity by September 10th, repair efforts will likely result in reduced output for weeks or months to come.
In Thailand, authorities have confirmed 10 deaths and warned of ongoing risks of flash floods in multiple areas through the coming week. The situation in Myanmar is equally grim, with the army reporting at least 33 deaths nationwide. Local news outlets suggest the toll may be even higher, with dozens of people reported missing in flood and landslide-affected regions.
The international community has responded swiftly to Vietnam’s plight, with several countries pledging support and resources. Australia has delivered humanitarian supplies as part of a $2 million assistance package. South Korea has committed $2 million in aid, while the United States Embassy has announced $1 million in support through the U.S. Agency for International Development.
With more heavy rain forecast in the coming days, Vietnamese authorities remain on high alert. Flood warnings are in effect for specific areas in Hanoi, including Phuc Tan beach, Phuc Xa beach, and the wards of Tu Lien, Quang Ba, and Phu Thuong. As water levels continue to rise in rivers across northern regions, there are concerns about the potential for further widespread flooding.
