Dong Nai Province Hit by Floods: Over 280 Households Affected, 115 Hectares of Rice and 41 Fish Ponds Submerged

Heavy rains over the past few days have caused significant flooding in Dong Nai province, southern Vietnam, affecting over 280 households and submerging 115 hectares of rice fields and 41 fish ponds. The provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development reported on September 24 that the damage assessment is ongoing. In Tan Quan commune, seven areas experienced flooding, directly impacting about 96 households. Signs of landslides and erosion risks along the Dong Nai River have also been noted. In Tan An commune, over 40 households relocated their assets to higher ground, and community houses were opened as temporary shelters, though some residents opted to stay with relatives. In Phuoc Tan ward, rising waters from the Buong River inundated residential areas along its tributaries, affecting approximately 150 households. While water levels reached up to 80cm in some locations, they have since begun to recede. Agricultural losses include 115 hectares of rice fields, with 110 hectares in Tan Trieu commune and 5 hectares in Tan An commune. While another 70 hectares in Tan An were temporarily flooded, significant damage was not reported as most of the rice had already been harvested. Aquaculture has also been affected, with preliminary reports indicating that 41 fish ponds, covering over 22 hectares, have sustained damage. The extent of the losses is still being evaluated. Tragically, in Binh Long ward, a woman died after her car was swept into the So Nhi dam spillway. Authorities have recovered the body and handed it over to the family. Local authorities have mobilized forces to assist residents in moving their belongings and have implemented safety measures, including warnings and road closures in submerged areas. The provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has directed communes and wards to maintain preparedness and implement the "four on-site" principle to ensure timely rescue and support for affected populations.