Vietnam: Death Toll from Typhoon Wutip Rises to Seven as Floods Worsen

HANOI – The number of people who lost their lives in Vietnam due to Typhoon Wutip has now reached seven, according to officials on Monday. The powerful typhoon caused heavy rain, flooding, and major destruction in several central provinces.

Over the weekend, Typhoon Wutip struck southern China, bringing powerful winds that peaked at around 128 kilometers per hour (approximately 80 miles per hour). After making landfall, it weakened into a tropical storm, but the damage had already begun in nearby areas, especially in central Vietnam.

Widespread Damage in Central Vietnam

The Vietnamese government’s disaster and dyke management authority shared a report on Monday confirming the latest toll. In addition to the seven deaths, around 100 houses were damaged, and nearly 60,000 hectares (approximately 148,000 acres) of farmland were left underwater.

Floodwaters swept through many towns and villages, destroying crops, blocking roads, and putting people’s safety at risk. The central region, including the popular tourist destination Hoi An, was badly affected. The flooding disrupted transportation, delayed travel, and impacted the lives of thousands of people.

Unusual Weather Patterns

Vietnam usually experiences around 12 tropical storms every year, most commonly starting in the northern region during June, and moving to the south later in the year. However, Typhoon Wutip brought unusual early-season rainfall to central parts of the country, creating unexpected challenges for residents and local authorities.

Experts believe that climate change is playing a big role in this shift. Rising global temperatures are causing more frequent and stronger storms, which increase the risk of severe flooding, destruction, and loss of life.

Increasing Impact of Natural Disasters

Vietnam has seen a sharp rise in the number of deaths caused by natural disasters in recent years. In 2024, natural disasters resulted in the deaths of 514 individuals — a figure nearly three times higher than the total recorded in 2023. This highlights the growing danger of extreme weather events in the region.

One of the deadliest disasters in recent memory occurred in September 2024, when Typhoon Yagi struck northern Vietnam. That storm killed 345 people and led to economic losses estimated at $3.3 billion. That heartbreaking event still lingers in the minds of many people across Vietnam.

Government and Community Response

Emergency teams have been sent to the affected areas to rescue stranded people, provide food and medical support, and help clean up damaged infrastructure. The government is also urging people in other flood-prone areas to stay alert, follow weather updates, and be ready to evacuate if necessary.

With storms becoming stronger and less predictable, Vietnam faces the difficult task of protecting its people and economy from future disasters. Experts are calling for better disaster planning, improved infrastructure, and stronger action against climate change to prevent even greater tragedies in the years ahead.