Mekong Delta faces low upstream floods and high tidal risks

The Mekong Delta is facing a hydrological paradox where low upstream flood levels are being offset by the threat of high tidal surges. In August, upstream water levels on the Hau and Tien rivers remain low, with levels at several stations in Dong Thap and An Giang staying below Alarm Level I and lower than the same period in 2025.

Despite the low upstream flow, experts warn of significant flooding risks in downstream areas due to high tides. In Can Tho, tidal peaks are forecasted to reach between 2.2m and 2.3m during late October and late November, levels comparable to recent years and approaching the historical record of 2.35m set in 2025.

Authorities in Can Tho and Vinh Long are preparing response scenarios to protect urban centers and fruit-growing regions. The risk is exacerbated by rapid land subsidence and closed dike systems that reduce natural water storage, forcing tides directly into urban areas. Localities are advised to reinforce embankments to ensure flood protection levels exceed 2.25m.