Vietnam forecasts heavy rain, warns of flash floods and landslides in four northern provinces

Vietnam's northern regions are bracing for significant rainfall on August 3rd, as the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting issued warnings for thunderstorms, localized downpours, whirlwinds, lightning, and strong winds. The forecast specifically highlights a risk of flash floods and landslides in four provinces: Lai Chau, Dien Bien, Lao Cai, and Tuyen Quang.

Overnight and early morning reports indicate that areas in the Northwest region, along with Tuyen Quang, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An provinces, have already received scattered showers and thunderstorms. Rainfall measurements show some locations exceeding 70 mm within a six-hour period, with specific stations like Hang Lia in Dien Bien recording 84 mm and Pa Ve Su in Lai Chau recording 80.2 mm.

The forecast suggests that northern provinces, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An will continue to experience rain, with amounts ranging from 15-35 mm. However, some areas could see intense rainfall exceeding 100 mm, posing a risk of concentrated downpours of over 80 mm within a three-hour span. Residents are advised to be cautious of potential whirlwinds, lightning, hail, and strong gusts during these storms.

Data from soil moisture models indicates that some areas within the four high-risk provinces are nearing or have reached saturation. The continued rainfall, with accumulations potentially exceeding 80 mm in parts of Lai Chau, Lao Cai, and Tuyen Quang, elevates the risk of flash floods and landslides. Local authorities are urged to proactively assess potential blockages in water flow and vulnerable areas to implement preventive measures.