In northern Vietnam’s Phu Tho province, the Phong Chau Bridge collapsed early Monday morning, sending at least 10 vehicles, including motorbikes and cars, plunging into the Red River. The 375-meter-long bridge’s collapse was a significant blow as the region continues to suffer the effects of Typhoon Yagi, which struck the area with unprecedented force.
WARNING – disturbing footage.
In Vietnam, at least 13 people fell into the Hồng (Red) River after part of Phong Châu Bridge in Phú Thọ was swept away by floodwaters. About 10 vehicles and two motorbikes fell in. Rescue efforts are hindered by fast currents following Typhoon… pic.twitter.com/TUZSnL5EIe— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) September 9, 2024
Authorities report that 13 people are missing following the incident. Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc indicated that the exact number of casualties remains uncertain. Rescue operations are underway, with some parts of the bridge still standing. Efforts are focused on constructing a temporary pontoon bridge to restore access to the affected area.
Typhoon Yagi, which made landfall on Saturday, is the most powerful storm to hit northern Vietnam in decades. The storm has claimed at least 64 lives and caused severe flooding and landslides across northern provinces. In addition to the bridge collapse, a passenger bus carrying 20 individuals was swept away by a landslide in Cao Bang province. Rescue efforts are being hindered by blocked roads and persistent heavy rains.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has announced emergency aid and directed the military to focus on rescue and recovery operations. The storm has severely impacted northern Vietnam’s industrial sector, causing power outages and extensive damage to factories. Haiphong, a city of two million, experienced significant damage, including roof collapses at LG Electronics factories, though no employee casualties were reported.
The Vietnam Meteorological Agency has issued warnings of continued flooding and landslides, with rainfall in the region reaching between 208 and 433 mm in the past 48 hours.
