Typhoon Matmo's aftermath triggers deadly floods in northern Vietnam

At least eight people have died and thousands of homes have been damaged after intense storms triggered by Typhoon Matmo brought severe flooding to northern Vietnam, despite the storm not making direct landfall in the country.

Heavy rains began on October 7, overwhelming rivers, submerging homes, and causing numerous landslides across the region. The downpours were the latest blow to northern provinces already battered by four other typhoons and tropical storms since September, Associated Press reports.

More than 4,800 homes had been damaged as of October 7. The worst-hit areas included Thai Nguyen, Cao Bang, Thanh Hoa, and Bac Ninh provinces.

In Thanh Hoa and Cao Bang, three people died in landslides, while four others drowned in Thai Nguyen and Thanh Hoa after being swept away by floodwaters. In Bac Ninh, one person was killed by a lightning strike.

In Thai Nguyen, just north of Hanoi, the swollen Cau River inundated several communities. Residents reported that floodwaters surged in with little warning, giving them no time to move their belongings. Several neighborhoods became isolated, prompting local authorities to deploy rescue boats to deliver emergency supplies and assist stranded residents.

Although the heavy rains ceased on Wednesday, authorities warned that floodwaters in low-lying areas are expected to persist through the weekend.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has approved an emergency relief package worth 140 billion VND (approximately $5.3 million) to support affected northern provinces, state media reported.

Officials continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert for further flooding and landslides.

By Sabina Mammadli