Flood prevention in Northwest Vietnam

In recent years, natural disasters, especially flash floods and landslides, in Vietnam's northwestern provinces, have become more rampant and have caused serious damage to local residents and their property. Meanwhile, disaster prevention and the relocation of residents have encountered difficulties.

Muong Vi Commune in Bat Xat District, Lao Cai Province. In the last 10 years, there have been 8 floods that have destroyed crops and property. After witnessing numerous natural disasters here, Lo Thi Sin believes it's the good luck of her ancestors that has kept her and her family safe until now.

Though forecasts are made frequently, heavy damage is still inevitable. According to the Steering Committee for Flood and Storm Control in Lao Cai province, until now, the province has only relocated about 30% of its population to safe zones. The remaining residents are still waiting to be reviewed for relocation.

Despite it just being the start of this year's rainy season, there have already been several landslides and flash floods in the two provinces of Lao Cai and Ha Giang, leaving two dead and dozens of households isolated, making prevention even more of a priority.