Filipinos visiting Vietnam warned vs. heavy rains, flash floods

“Due to recent continuous heavy rain in the Northern portion of Vietnam, there is a very high risk of flash floods in low-lying areas and landslides in the mountainous areas,” it said. (Pexels Photo)

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – Filipinos residing in and visiting northern Vietnam this week are advised to take caution as heavy rains are forecast to hit several provinces, the Philippine Embassy in Hanoi said.

In an advisory dated Aug. 12, the embassy said heavy downpours ranging from 100 to 250 mm are expected in the northern portion of Vietnam and as much as 400 mm of rainfall in some areas from Aug. 11 to 15.

“Due to recent continuous heavy rain in the Northern portion of Vietnam, there is a very high risk of flash floods in low-lying areas and landslides in the mountainous areas,” it said.

Filipinos living, working, or visiting the area were “strongly advised to take extra precaution and ensure full cooperation with local authorities in case of severe weather conditions.”

The localities under monitoring are Dien Bien, Lai Chau, Son La, Hoa Binh, Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, Phu Tho, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Thai Nguyen, Lang Son, Bac Giang, Bac Ninh, Quang Ninh, Vinh Phuc, Hanoi, Ha Nam, Hai Phong, Nam Dinh, Ninh Binh, Thai Binh, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An.

In case of emergency situations, affected Filipinos are urged to get in touch with the embassy’s Assistance-to-Nationals section via +84 90 4126164.

Since July, the north and north-central regions of Vietnam have experienced prolonged periods of heavy rainfall, triggering landslides and flash floods.