Severe flooding has affected central Vietnam, particularly in the provinces of Dak Lak, Gia Lai, Lam Dong, and Khanh Hoa. According to Vietnamese authorities, at least 50 people have died and 10 are missing as a result of the floods. The Vietnamese National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting predicts that rain will continue through November 24, with rainfall amounts expected between 50 and 200 millimeters. Some areas have already recorded over 1.7 meters of rain since November 14.
The ongoing heavy rainfall has placed significant pressure on water infrastructure and riverways in these provinces. Major rivers have reached levels above historic records, leading to severe flooding that persists despite some recent receding of water levels. Thousands of residents remain evacuated or isolated without access to emergency services, electricity, food, or clean water.
U.S. Consulate General officials in Ho Chi Minh City report ongoing communication with local authorities who are assisting those impacted by the floods. However, extensive disruption to roadways and utilities is hampering rescue efforts.
"If you require immediate assistance, please attempt to contact the following," the alert states before listing emergency contacts for each province.
Residents are advised to avoid travel in affected regions and not to cross flooded areas on foot or by vehicle. In case of being caught in flood conditions, people should stay on higher ground when possible and notify authorities rather than attempting to leave shelter. It is also recommended to conserve battery power on communication devices and use objects for sound or visual signals if awaiting rescue.
Authorities urge individuals to monitor local media for updates on weather conditions as forecasted storm paths may change quickly; additional rain could worsen existing flooding. Residents should also comply with evacuation orders when issued.
For updated storm tracking information, people can consult resources such as the U.S. Joint Typhoon Warning Center (https://www.metoc.navy.mil/jtwc/jtwc.html) and the Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (https://www.nchmf.gov.vn/kttv/). Further information is available via the U.S. Embassy’s website (https://vn.usembassy.gov/) or official social media channels @travelgov.
The U.S. Embassy Hanoi (+84-24-3850-5000) and U.S. Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City (+84-28-3520-4200) remain available for assistance along with other national hotlines provided in the alert.