On August 5, reporters recorded in the Lao Cai ward area that after many days of early August with moderate to heavy rain, with very heavy rain in some places causing some areas to be flooded, the water level of the Red River has increased significantly compared to the dry season.
The water is cloudy, flowing swiftly, carrying many branches and garbage drifting along the stream. In some riverside areas, water has flooded into people's crop areas.
Local authorities are strengthening monitoring of water levels, and at the same time recommending people not to approach riverbanks or wharves to ensure safety.
According to the Lao Cai Provincial Hydrometeorological Station, the water level on the Thao River at Lao Cai station and Yen Bai station is currently fluctuating upwards. On the Ngoi Thia River and Chay River at Bao Yen station, the water level fluctuates according to the regulation regime of upstream hydropower reservoirs.
The meteorological agency predicts that from August 4th to the end of August 5th, a flood with an amplitude of 1.5-3m is likely to appear on rivers and streams in Lao Cai province.
The peak flood on the Thao River at Lao Cai station is likely to exceed alarm level 1; at Yen Bai station at approximately alarm level 1. Small rivers and streams are likely to reach alarm level 1.
Rising river water levels can cause flooding in low-lying areas along rivers and streams.
The risk of flooding is warned in many communes and wards such as Lao Cai, Cam Duong, Coc San, Bat Xat, Muong Khuong, Luc Yen, Muong Lai, Phuc Loi, Tan Linh, Yen Binh, Yen Bai, Au Lau, Nam Cuong, Van Phu, Tran Yen, Thac Ba and some neighboring areas.
In addition, prolonged heavy rain increases the risk of flash floods and landslides on small rivers and streams; landslides on hillsides, traffic road slopes and land subsidence in areas with weak geological foundations.
Localities with suspension bridges and underpasses are recommended to strengthen warnings and limit people and vehicles from passing through during rain and floods.
The meteorological agency assesses the level of natural disaster risk due to floods at level 1, but floods and inundation can still affect people's lives, traffic, agricultural production, aquaculture and socio-economic activities.
Some images recorded about the Red River water on the morning of August 5th:
