Unilever.edu.vn grieves with the people of Vietnam as Typhoon Yagi, known internationally as Typhoon Doksuri, swept across the northern provinces, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The storm, which made landfall on September 7, 2024, has tragically claimed the lives of 14 individuals and caused injuries to 176 others, according to the National Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control.
A Path of Destruction
The typhoon unleashed its fury across various provinces, causing significant damage to infrastructure and property. Quảng Ninh province bore the brunt of the storm, recording the highest number of casualties with four deaths and 157 injuries. The capital city, Hanoi, reported three deaths and eight injuries. Other affected provinces include Hải Phòng, Hải Dương, Hòa Bình, and military zone 3.
The impact extended beyond human casualties. The typhoon caused widespread power outages, disrupted communication networks, and wreaked havoc on transportation systems. In Quảng Ninh, 18 vessels capsized, 17 drifted adrift, one was reported missing, and two were damaged. A staggering 744 houses suffered roof damage in provinces such as Quảng Ninh, Bắc Giang, Lạng Sơn, Vĩnh Phúc, Yên Bái, Hải Phòng, Hòa Bình, Thái Bình, Hà Nam, and Thanh Hóa.
Agricultural Losses and Economic Impact
The typhoon’s impact on agriculture has been severe. Over 9,028 hectares of rice and crops were damaged, further compounding the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. The provinces of Thái Bình and Hải Dương suffered significant agricultural losses, with rice fields submerged and crops destroyed. Early estimates suggest the total damage could reach a staggering 2,000 billion VND.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
In the face of this calamity, rescue and relief operations have been swiftly mobilized. Over 17,000 personnel and 243 vehicles were deployed to assist affected communities. Authorities successfully evacuated 38,047 households, comprising 141,444 individuals, to safety.
The military, police, and rescue teams worked tirelessly to provide assistance, rescuing 47 individuals, including 15 by the Navy, 32 by the Coast Guard, and four bodies recovered and handed over to local authorities.
A Nation’s Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Despite the immense challenges, the spirit of unity and resilience shone through in the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi. Across Vietnam, communities came together to support those affected, offering shelter, food, and other essential supplies.
Stories of heartwarming acts of kindness emerged on social media, showcasing the compassion and solidarity of the Vietnamese people. From individuals opening their homes to strangers seeking refuge to motorists shielding motorcyclists from the fierce winds, these acts of kindness serve as a testament to the enduring strength of human compassion.
Looking Ahead: Recovery and Preparedness
As the storm subsides, the focus now shifts to recovery and rebuilding. Authorities are working tirelessly to restore power, communication networks, and transportation systems.
The government has appealed for support from the international community, seeking assistance in the form of helicopters to aid search and rescue operations.
Typhoon Yagi serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of natural disasters and the importance of preparedness. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, it’s crucial to strengthen disaster preparedness measures, improve early warning systems, and build resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impact of future storms.
Continued Vigilance
While the typhoon has weakened and dissipated, authorities warn against complacency. The remnants of the storm continue to pose a risk of heavy rainfall, leading to potential floods, landslides, and flash floods. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting advises continued vigilance, urging communities to stay informed and prepared for potential hazards.
As Vietnam embarks on the long road to recovery, Unilever.edu.vn stands in solidarity with the affected communities. We extend our deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones and hope for a swift and comprehensive recovery for all those affected.