News
October 29, 2025
Record rainfall causes major flooding in Vietnam, submerging ancient sites
Tourists were evacuated by boat on Monday from Hoi An's ancient town after persistent rainfall and releases from hydroelectric dams caused water in the Hoai Riv
er to rise to over a meter, submerging streets and buildings.
Record rainfall has triggered devastating floods across central Vietnam, including the UNESCO World Heritage city of Hoi An, forcing the evacuation of tourists and residents alike. The ancient town, a major tourist destination renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culture, found itself largely underwater on Monday as the Hoai River swelled to over a meter above its normal level.
The relentless downpour, coupled with the release of water from hydroelectric dams upstream, overwhelmed the region's drainage systems, leaving streets and buildings submerged. Pictures circulating online show iconic landmarks of Hoi An partially or completely underwater, with floodwaters reaching the doorways of historic homes and businesses.
Emergency services have been working tirelessly to rescue stranded individuals, with boats being used to evacuate tourists from hotels and guesthouses in the hardest-hit areas of the ancient town. The situation is particularly challenging due to the narrow, winding streets of Hoi An, which are now rendered impassable by the rising floodwaters.
Local authorities are scrambling to provide shelter and essential supplies to those displaced by the flooding. The extent of the damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure is still being assessed, but early reports suggest significant losses. While the focus remains on immediate rescue and relief efforts, concerns are growing about the long-term impact on Hoi An's cultural heritage. The floodwaters pose a threat to the ancient structures, potentially causing damage to the foundations and delicate architectural details that have made the town a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experts are expected to assess the damage once the waters recede.
The record rainfall and subsequent flooding have highlighted the vulnerability of Vietnam to extreme weather events, particularly in the central region. The combination of natural factors and human activities, such as dam construction, has exacerbated the impact of the recent weather. As the floodwaters gradually begin to recede, the long and arduous task of cleaning up and rebuilding will begin, requiring significant resources and coordinated efforts to restore normalcy to the affected communities and preserve the historical treasures of Hoi An.
Record rainfall has triggered devastating floods across central Vietnam, including the UNESCO World Heritage city of Hoi An, forcing the evacuation of tourists and residents alike. The ancient town, a major tourist destination renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culture, found itself largely underwater on Monday as the Hoai River swelled to over a meter above its normal level.
The relentless downpour, coupled with the release of water from hydroelectric dams upstream, overwhelmed the region's drainage systems, leaving streets and buildings submerged. Pictures circulating online show iconic landmarks of Hoi An partially or completely underwater, with floodwaters reaching the doorways of historic homes and businesses.
Emergency services have been working tirelessly to rescue stranded individuals, with boats being used to evacuate tourists from hotels and guesthouses in the hardest-hit areas of the ancient town. The situation is particularly challenging due to the narrow, winding streets of Hoi An, which are now rendered impassable by the rising floodwaters.
Local authorities are scrambling to provide shelter and essential supplies to those displaced by the flooding. The extent of the damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure is still being assessed, but early reports suggest significant losses. While the focus remains on immediate rescue and relief efforts, concerns are growing about the long-term impact on Hoi An's cultural heritage. The floodwaters pose a threat to the ancient structures, potentially causing damage to the foundations and delicate architectural details that have made the town a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experts are expected to assess the damage once the waters recede.
The record rainfall and subsequent flooding have highlighted the vulnerability of Vietnam to extreme weather events, particularly in the central region. The combination of natural factors and human activities, such as dam construction, has exacerbated the impact of the recent weather. As the floodwaters gradually begin to recede, the long and arduous task of cleaning up and rebuilding will begin, requiring significant resources and coordinated efforts to restore normalcy to the affected communities and preserve the historical treasures of Hoi An.
Category:
World