Typhoon Wipha, the sixth typhoon to hit the region this year, has unleashed severe flooding and landslides in central Vietnam, authorities reported on Wednesday. The storm has posed a high risk of flash floods and landslides in mountainous areas, leading to widespread concern among residents and officials.
In Nghe An province, one person has died and another has been injured due to the flooding. Water levels in several residential areas have reached depths of one to two meters, forcing many residents to evacuate their homes.
Meanwhile, in Thanh Hoa province, Wipha triggered landslides at eight locations, displacing over 20,000 cubic meters of earth and rock. The landslides have blocked roads and isolated communities, making rescue and relief efforts challenging.
The storm also caused significant damage to agriculture and property. The roofs of seven houses were blown off, and more than 8,000 hectares of rice fields have been submerged, threatening food supplies and livelihoods across the province.
As of early Wednesday, Wipha has weakened into a tropical depression and is moving west-southwest. However, authorities warn that the risks of further flooding and landslides remain high, and they are urging residents in affected areas to stay vigilant and follow safety instructions.
The impact of Typhoon Wipha highlights the vulnerability of central Vietnam to extreme weather events, raising concerns about climate change and the need for improved disaster preparedness.
