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Vietnam Flood Crisis: Ancient Hoi An Underwater
Vietnam is battling catastrophic flooding after record-breaking rains submerged large parts of the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Hoi An. Triggered by a tropical depression and intensified monsoons, the deluge has displaced thousands, destroyed infrastructure, and claimed at least 12 lives.
Hoi An’s Cultural Heritage at Risk
The Thu Bon River’s overflow has left 70% of Hoi An—famous for its lantern-lit streets and 16th-century Japanese Covered Bridge—under waist-deep water. Emergency teams are evacuating residents and tourists as historic buildings face severe damage.
“This is the worst flooding in 20 years,” says local shop owner Nguyen Thi Lan. “Last year’s recovery efforts are now wasted.”
Central Vietnam Devastated by Floods
Neighboring provinces—Quang Nam, Thua Thien-Hue, and Quang Tri—are also submerged. Landslides have buried villages, while collapsed roads hinder rescue missions. Some areas saw 1,000+ mm of rain in 72 hours—double the monthly average.
Climate Change & Weak Infrastructure Worsen Crisis
Scientists warn Vietnam’s flood vulnerability is rising due to:
– Climate change (stronger monsoons, rising seas)
– Deforestation & poor drainage
– Urban sprawl in flood-prone zones
“Ancient cities weren’t built for this,” says climate expert Dr. Le Thanh Hai. “Without better flood defenses, disasters will escalate.”
Tourism & Economy Suffer Heavy Blow
Hoi An’s recovering tourism industry faces collapse. Hotel owner Tran Van Hoang fears: “Businesses won’t survive weeks of lost income and costly repairs.”
Government & Global Aid Mobilized
PM Pham Minh Chinh has pledged emergency funds, while the Red Cross assists relief efforts. Neighboring Laos and Cambodia brace for downstream flooding.
What’s Next?
With more rain forecast, evacuations continue. The bigger question: Can Vietnam adapt to climate-driven floods?
Follow #VietnamFloods for live updates.
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