The damage in the provinces and cities of the Central region during this unusual flood is very significant. It is not just a paper number: Houses submerged in water, assets accumulated all their lives flooded, crop fields that have not yet reached harvest are lost, livestock and poultry cannot be relocated yet, and die everywhere... All are proof of a common reality, which is the passiveness, confusion and lack of preparation of the entire system, from the people to the local government.
In reality, traditional experiences in flood prevention, historical flood milestones that were once considered "safe measures", the time of storms and floods... have now become outdated. Climate change is making the weather more extreme, unusual and unpredictable than ever. Stronger storms, unprecedented heavy rains, unseasonal floods... are no longer rare. If you rely on old experience or react in a worn-out way " dancing until your feet" is no different from a risky gamble with life and property.
To minimize damage, there is no other way than to proactively adapt. This solution requires synchronous and drastic participation from many sides.
First of all, it is forecasting. Warning information not only needs to be issued early and promptly but also needs to closely follow the smallest developments, constantly updating sudden and erratic changes in the weather. An accurate and detailed forecast, quickly transmitted through many channels, will be a "golden time" for the government and people to deploy effective response plans.
Second, there needs to be a change in the thinking of agricultural production. "Living with floods" intelligently requires converting the structure of crops, livestock and adjusting the seasonal schedule. Especially in low-lying areas, frequently flooded or vulnerable coastal areas. This is a fundamental, long-term solution to protect the lives and property of rural people and make a living for farmers.
equally important is the change in awareness and action of each citizen. Subjectivity, dependence on general announcements or relying only on personal experience must be replaced by self-awareness and initiative. Each family needs to have its own disaster prevention plan.
In a special area like the Central region, the regulating role of upstream reservoirs and hydroelectric reservoirs is extremely important. It is necessary to adjust the flexible inter-reservoir operation process, prioritizing the task of cutting and reducing floods downstream.
Natural disasters are an irresistible factor, but the damage caused by natural disasters can be completely reduced. The war against extreme weather is a long-term war, and can only be won when there is careful preparation, proactiveness and constant adaptation.
