Heavy rainfall, brought on by Storm No. 11 from the previous day through the early morning of October 7, has led to a sharp increase in water levels across rivers and streams throughout Cao Bang Province, especially the Bang Giang and Hien rivers.

Many riverside households, still in the midst of cleaning and repairing after the flood on October 1, were once again forced to evacuate their homes and move vulnerable family members, including the elderly and children, to safer areas.

On-the-ground reports show that water in the Bang Giang River surged quickly, overtopping its banks and flooding several low-lying roads along its edge. Meanwhile, water levels in the Hien River also continued to rise, with swift and muddy currents carrying debris and uprooted trees.

Weather forecasts indicate that heavy rainfall will persist over the next one to two days in Cao Bang, posing a continued risk of flooding and landslides.

In response to the worsening situation, the Provincial Civil Defense Command has directed local authorities to closely monitor developments, deploy personnel to vulnerable areas, and issue early warnings while assisting residents in moving their belongings to safety.

Central wards in the city have also stationed local militias and police officers along riverbanks to respond swiftly in case of further emergencies.

On October 7, Le Hai Hoa, Chairman of the Cao Bang Provincial People's Committee, officially declared a state of emergency due to natural disaster. The decision outlines immediate emergency measures to respond to the crisis and mitigate damages.

Local authorities are instructed to focus on helping residents repair their homes and quickly stabilize daily life. Agencies must implement relief policies, providing prompt assistance to households that suffered severe damage, injury, or loss of life.

Crucially, emergency food, water, and essential supplies must be distributed immediately, with a strict directive that no one should be left hungry, cold, or homeless.

In addition, all forces must begin immediate environmental sanitation in flooded areas as soon as water levels recede, to prevent the outbreak of disease.

For prevention efforts, relevant agencies are required to identify dangerous zones (e.g., flash flood and landslide-prone areas) and develop evacuation scenarios that prioritize the safety of human lives.

Specialized units must also restore infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted and safe transportation, electricity, water supply, and irrigation systems.

Local governments must strictly follow all emergency directives. Authorities are also tasked with thoroughly inspecting and documenting damages, which will form the basis for the provincial chairman to allocate the necessary local budget for swift recovery and resumption of economic activities.

Duc Hoang