Widespread floods in the central region in early November claimed the lives of 35 persons and left six others missing by November 14. Meanwhile, rescue teams together with relief supplies are rushing to flood-hit areas.

Initial reports show that floods have submerged nearly 380,000 houses, destroyed over 2,500 hectares of rice and damaged many road sections and power stations.

A number of areas in central provinces are still isolated by flood water. Rescue teams had to use helicopters to deliver aid as local authorities were unable to transport supplies by road due to landslides.

In response to traffic problems, the Transport Ministry instructed all relevant units to implement flood and storm prevention measures and help clear obstructions caused by landslides.

Thousands of army men have been mobilised to help locals repair houses and infrastructure. Medical teams are also making all efforts to clean the environment in flooded localities and prevent any outbreaks of disease.

The Embassy of Canada announced on November 15 an emergency grant of 100,000 CAD (US $103,000) to Vietnam’s northern and central provinces that suffered from serious losses caused by floods. The Vietnam Women’s Union will channel this grant through its provincial network to help flood-stricken households in these areas to recover their production.

Earlier on November 14, New Zealand’s Red Cross 14 pledged to provide US $11,700 for victims of typhoon Lekima and recent floods.

Meanwhile, the National Centre for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting said that central region could be hit by a new wave of heavy rains involving floods.

Source: ND