HANOI – Vietnam is in a state of national emergency as it confronts the devastating aftermath of Typhoon Bualoi (Storm No. 10), with the focus remaining on urgent rescue and recovery efforts in the country's northern provinces. Preliminary damage assessments have revealed a staggering economic toll, with losses already exceeding 8 trillion VND (approximately US$315 million).
A Horrific Human and Economic Cost
According to the latest rapid assessment report from the Dyke Management and Flood Control Authority, the typhoon and its subsequent circulation have resulted in a catastrophic loss of life and property. The official figures confirm that 51 people are now dead or missing.
The impact on infrastructure and housing has been immense:
91 homes have been completely destroyed.
Nearly 145,000 houses have sustained damage or had their roofs torn off.
Over 20,000 homes remain submerged in floodwaters.
Rescue operations are continuing around the clock, though hopes are fading for the 19 people who remain missing in the mountainous provinces of Hoa Binh and Yen Bai, areas that suffered from terrifying landslides.
Historic Flooding Paralyzes Hanoi
The capital city of Hanoi has been brought to a standstill after being hit by record-breaking rainfall from the typhoon's remnants. The deluge has caused severe, widespread flooding across the metropolis.
As of Wednesday evening, numerous major roads and residential areas, including modern urban developments, remain inundated, creating scenes of chaos as residents struggle to navigate the "sea of water." The widespread flooding has completely disrupted daily life and traffic across the city. In response, municipal authorities have issued flood alerts for the Cau, Nhue, Bui, and Ca Lo rivers, which run through and around the capital.
The entire nation's attention is now fixed on the northern region as it faces the immense challenge of recovering from one of the most destructive storms in recent memory.