At least 14 people have been confirmed dead or remain missing after severe flooding and mudslides swept through Vietnam’s mountainous northern province of Điện Biên, following torrential rains that began late on July 31.
Among the worst-affected areas is Xa Dung village, where one person was confirmed dead and six others remain unaccounted for. In Hang Pu Xi village, two children were buried in a mudslide and have yet to be recovered.
Local authorities have reported widespread devastation across multiple communes, with flash floods inundating homes, severing road access, and knocking out electricity. Search and rescue operations have been significantly hampered by ongoing rain and treacherous terrain, as emergency teams struggle to reach isolated communities.
“We are facing extremely difficult conditions,” said a provincial official. “Blocked roads, power outages, and continuous rainfall are slowing rescue efforts.”
As of Saturday, rescue teams are continuing to search for survivors and provide urgent relief. Many affected residents have been evacuated to safer areas, while others remain stranded in remote mountain villages awaiting aid.
Video footage from local media shows scenes of destruction: homes engulfed by floodwaters, roads washed out, and vehicles overturned by powerful currents. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
In response, Iran’s Red Crescent Society has offered humanitarian assistance through coordination with the Vietnam Red Cross Society, underscoring growing international concern over the disaster.
Ongoing Threat
The provincial meteorological agency has warned that more rain is expected in the coming days, heightening the risk of further flooding and landslides. Authorities are urging residents in high-risk zones to remain vigilant and evacuate if necessary.
By the Numbers
Casualties: At least 14 people dead or missing
Worst-hit areas: Xa Dung and Hang Pu Xi villages
Infrastructure damage: Road blockages, power outages, and collapsed homes
Rescue challenges: Isolated terrain, continued rainfall, limited access
Relief Efforts Underway
Emergency response teams are distributing food, clean water, and medical supplies, while efforts to restore power and communication lines are ongoing. Temporary shelters have been set up for displaced families.
Provincial leaders have called for national support to bolster relief efforts and rebuild infrastructure. In the meantime, families continue to search for loved ones lost in the floods.
