Two bodies found, Lai Chau flood toll reaches six

Two bodies have been recovered in Lai Chau province, bringing the confirmed death toll from a flash flood to six. The victims were found in a hydroelectric lake, 15 to 20 kilometers from the original flash flood site in Muong Than commune.

The disaster has devastated the region, impacting 200 households. Twenty-four homes were completely destroyed, and 156 others sustained damage, forcing residents to relocate. Approximately 300 hectares of rice fields, crops, and aquaculture were buried by mud and debris, rendering them irreparable. Road infrastructure also suffered significant damage, with 800 meters of National Highway 32 heavily damaged and causing traffic disruptions, while National Highway 279 experienced three landslides. An estimated 1,830 meters of local roads were also affected.

Total damages from the natural disaster in Muong Than commune are estimated to exceed 190 billion Vietnamese dong, a substantial increase from previous reports. In response to the widespread destruction, provincial authorities are taking urgent measures to resettle affected residents. Vice Chairman of the Lai Chau Provincial People's Committee, Ha Trong Hai, inspected potential relocation sites and plans for temporary housing in San Bay village. The provincial chairman has issued an order for urgent construction of emergency housing to provide immediate shelter for those who lost their homes.