Emergency Declared Due to Natural Disasters in Hoa Binh Province

On September 20, Bui Van Khanh, the Chairman of the People’s Committee of Hoa Binh province, announced a state of emergency due to natural disasters affecting Rang village in Cao Son commune and Rai village in Tuan Dao commune.

This decision comes after significant cracks and ground subsidence were noted in these areas, heightening the risk of landslides. A major 500-meter crack has appeared on Ao Ech hill in Rang village, threatening the local population. Consequently, authorities took action to evacuate 30 households, comprising 126 individuals, to protect them from danger.

Meanwhile, in Rai village, continuous rainfall linked to Typhoon No. 3 has resulted in severe cracking and subsidence, with fissures measuring between 1 to 3 meters deep and extending up to 800 meters. This situation has adversely affected 111 households, prompting the urgent relocation of 60 families, totaling 278 people, due to the severe risks involved.

The ongoing subsidence has led to significant damage to homes, with evidence of sinking foundations and cracked walls. Experts warn that a full landslide could mobilize as much as 8 million cubic meters of earth and debris.

Cracks in the affected regions continue to expand, and further precipitation could exacerbate the soil saturation, heightening the risk of landslides.

In response to the escalating threat, Chairman Bui Van Khanh has instructed the local authorities in Lac Son and Da Bac districts to guarantee that evacuated residents receive adequate support and stable living conditions. Emergency teams are closely monitoring the situation, with warnings and barriers set up to prevent individuals from accessing hazardous areas.

This declaration mirrors recent emergency measures in Son La province, where heavy rains have triggered landslides, leading to significant destruction and the displacement of community members. In Muong La district, one individual has been reported missing and approximately 90 homes have either been destroyed or severely impacted.