Northern Vietnam battered by heavy rains and landslides, extensive flooding

From 8 July through 11 July 2026 a prolonged heavy‑rain episode swept the mountainous regions of northern Vietnam. The National Center for Hydro‑Meteorological Forecasts recorded rainfall of 150‑300 mm in many locations, with peaks of 420 mm in Quảng Ninh and over 300 mm in Lai Châu, Điện Biên and Sơn La. The downpours triggered landslides and flash floods that damaged homes, agricultural fields and infrastructure across eight provinces – Điện Biên, Sơn La, Lai Châu, Lào Cai, Tuyên Quang, Thái Nguyên, Quảng Ninh and Hà Nội.

In Điện Biên and Sơn La more than 160 houses were affected, several collapsing completely, and 45 families were displaced. Agricultural losses totalled about 15.99 billion VND, with rice paddies and other crops inundated. Roads on national highways 6 and 12 were blocked by debris, prompting temporary closures and traffic diversions. In Hà Nội, urban drainage struggled; isolated street flooding was reported despite recent anti‑flood projects, and several streets in Hải Phòng saw water depths of 30‑40 cm for hours.

Authorities deployed rescue teams, cleared landslide debris, and opened dam spillways to mitigate further flooding. Forecasts warned of continued heavy rain on 10‑11 July, with a gradual easing expected thereafter.