Hanoi Flooded by Heavy Rainfall, Disrupting Traffic and Exposing Infrastructure Weaknesses

Hanoi was hit by record rainfall early on September 17, causing widespread flooding across the capital and paralyzing traffic during the morning commute. Luong The Vinh Street in Thanh Xuan Ward was submerged by 30-50 cm of water around 7 a.m., leaving many vehicles stranded. Photos captured a woman carefully crossing the flooded street and motorcyclists stopping on the roadside to avoid splashing. The Hanoi Sewerage Company reported 64 mm of rainfall at its Mai Dich monitoring station in Phu Dien Ward by 3 a.m., yet Doan Ke Thien Street remained flooded at around 40 cm. Rainfall monitoring data indicated exceptionally heavy precipitation in several areas of Hanoi from 7 p.m. on September 16 to 3 a.m. on September 17, with 199 mm in Tu Liem, 190 mm in Hai Ba Trung, 182 mm in Cau Giay, 164 mm in Yen So, and 153 mm in Thanh Liet. In the city's western gateway, over 30 centimeters of water covered a section of National Highway 6, occupying nearly all four lanes. Vehicles were forced into the outermost lane, causing congestion. On Thang Long Boulevard toward the city center, a section was flooded by more than 50 centimeters, making it impassable for low-clearance vehicles. Some motorbikes were forced to change direction and enter the expressway. The heavy overnight rain significantly impacted urban functionality, once again highlighting the country's infrastructure development challenges. Despite rapid urbanization and economic growth, Vietnam faces ongoing issues with aging drainage systems, road networks, and adapting to climate change.