Can Tho Faces Flooding as Hau River Surges Above Alert Level III

Can Tho City in southern Vietnam is experiencing flooding in low-lying and riverside areas due to a combination of high tides and heavy rainfall. The city's Department of Agriculture has announced that water levels on the Hau River and its main canals remain at high levels, urging residents to proactively respond to potential inundation. According to the City Department of Agriculture and Plant Protection, the weather has been unfavorable in recent days, with heavy rainfall observed in many areas. The heavy rains, coinciding with the high tide at the beginning of the eighth lunar month, have caused flooding on several roads, in low-lying areas, and along riverbanks, affecting transportation and agricultural activities in places with poor drainage. From September 17th to 21st, Can Tho City is forecast to experience cloudy weather with scattered rain, showers, and thunderstorms, with some areas receiving moderate to very heavy rainfall. During thunderstorms, residents should be cautious of lightning and strong gusts of wind. Notably, water levels on the Hau River and its main canals are projected to remain above alert level III until September 22nd. This development could impact areas outside the dikes, low-lying regions, and some production zones at risk of flooding. In response to this situation, the agricultural sector has requested local authorities to enhance monitoring of meteorological and hydrological information, proactively reinforce dikes, and operate drainage pumps when necessary. Preparations for harvesting equipment and machinery are also being urged to minimize damage from heavy rains and rising water levels. The agricultural sector continues to advise residents to closely monitor the developments of rain, high tides, and water levels, and to proactively drain water, especially in low-lying and dike-outside areas, by reinforcing embankments and preparing pumps.