Hue's Historic City Faces Record Flooding and Infrastructure Crisis

Vietnam is experiencing unprecedented rainfall leading to severe flooding, especially in the historic city of Hue. Within 24 hours, Hue recorded over 1,085 millimeters of rain, setting a new national record. The intense weather has caused widespread disruptions, with several communities isolated due to destroyed bridges and landslides. Authorities are warning of continued heavy rain, which could exacerbate the risk of further flooding and flash floods.

The flooding has notably affected iconic landmarks in Hue, submerging the city center and causing massive disruptions to daily life. Rivers such as the Song Huong and Song Bo have reached critical levels, prompting residents to seek higher ground. In addition to Hue, other regions in central Vietnam, including Hoi An and Da Nang, are experiencing similar challenges, with roads submerged and landslides reported.

The extreme weather is attributed to a combination of low-level cold air and strong easterly winds. While water levels in some rivers are slowly receding, significant rainfall is still expected, contributing to ongoing concerns about infrastructure damage and public safety. Efforts are underway to assist affected communities, with emergency relocations and repairs being a priority to mitigate the impact of this natural disaster.