Central Vietnam has experienced severe flooding and landslides, with the death toll rising to 55, while 13 people remain missing, according to the country’s disaster agency on Saturday, November 22. Torrential rainfall over the past week has overwhelmed the region, with some areas recording more than 1,900 millimeters (74.8 inches) of rain.

The affected region, known for its coffee production and popular coastal beaches, is highly vulnerable to storms and flooding during the rainy season. The impact has been particularly severe in Dak Lak province, which alone accounts for 27 of the fatalities. Khanh Hoa province has reported 14 deaths, highlighting the widespread nature of the disaster across central Vietnam.

The government has estimated that the floods have caused significant economic damage, totaling approximately 8.98 trillion dong (S$445 million). In addition to the human toll, over 235,000 homes have been submerged by floodwaters, forcing many residents to evacuate, and nearly 80,000 hectares of crops have been destroyed, threatening local livelihoods and agricultural output.

Authorities continue rescue and relief operations, focusing on the most affected areas and attempting to locate the missing individuals. The disaster underscores the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, which have become increasingly frequent in recent years. Local and national agencies are mobilizing resources to provide aid to affected communities, assess the damage, and support recovery efforts. The combination of heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides has left a significant mark on central Vietnam, affecting both lives and the economy.