Since Thursday (July 31), heavy rainfall in the mountainous areas of Dien Bien Province in northern Vietnam has caused flash floods and landslides, resulting in at least 3 deaths, 9 missing persons, and numerous villages surrounded by floodwaters. Hundreds of residents have been urgently evacuated as several national and provincial roads have been severely damaged, leading to transportation disruptions and significant devastation.
According to the Vietnam News Agency, as of the morning of August 1, among the 3 deceased, two individuals were buried in their own homes by landslides in Tia Dinh, while another was swept away by floodwaters in Xa Dung. Additionally, 2 individuals were injured, and the whereabouts of 9 people remain unknown as search and rescue efforts continue.
Starting from the evening of July 31, heavy rain persisted for several hours, causing rapid flooding in low-lying areas with many villages submerged. Mudslides occurred frequently in the mountainous regions, resulting in severe casualties and property losses.
Xa Dung village has been the most severely affected, with 1 confirmed fatality and 6 individuals missing. In Hang Pu Xi village, two children were buried by mudslides, and their bodies have not been found yet.
The floods have also damaged multiple roads and power facilities, leading to disruptions in transportation and communication in some areas, hindering rescue operations. Local authorities have mobilized rescue teams and heavy machinery to assist in clearing roads, searching for missing persons, and providing shelter for affected residents.
Dien Bien Province is located in the northwest of Vietnam, characterized by its mountainous terrain and fragile geology. The region experiences frequent heavy rainfall during the rainy season from May to October, which often triggers flash floods and mudslides. A similar flood disaster occurred in the province in 2024, resulting in at least 10 deaths.