The Central Meteorological and Hydrological Forecast Center reported on October 11 that due to the combined effects of the northern edge of the tropical convergence zone and the intensified cold air, heavy rain is expected in the Northern region and Thanh Hoa, with rainfall ranging from 40-80 mm in many areas.
Over the past two days, Hanoi has experienced heavy and very heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms may occur, bringing the risk of tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong winds. There is a high warning for flash floods and landslides in mountainous areas, as well as localized flooding in low-lying areas and along rivers.
Within the city, many trees have fallen, damaging residents’ property. According to our observations, around noon today, a century-old rain tree unexpectedly uprooted, falling from the Vietnam-Soviet Friendship Cultural Palace onto the Thang Long Club (Hoan Kiem District).
A newly constructed restroom was severely damaged when the tree fell on it. Many branches hit the roof, creating loud noises. Two parked cars in the area also suffered significant damage, one with a crushed rear end and the other with broken glass.
Tree from Vietnam-Soviet Friendship Cultural Palace fell on Thang Long Club on October 11
Tree fell on restroom and two cars in the area
Newly built restroom severely damaged
Many branches causing damage in the club area
“There was a loud noise, and when I ran out, I saw the tree had fallen on the restroom and the courtyard. Fortunately, the club was not operating at that time, so there were no visitors. Otherwise, we couldn’t have anticipated the full extent of the damage,” a security guard recounted.
After reporting to local authorities, the tree management company arrived to assess the damage and cut branches to move the two cars out. Residents noted that the tree had already been leaning towards the Thang Long Club for some time, and the prolonged heavy rain, combined with the weight of the tree, caused it to uproot.
Tree also fell on the roof of the main building of the club
The trunk of the tree crushed the notice board in the club’s yard
Despite being trimmed, branches are still scattered in the yard
Large roots of the century-old tree
Also during the heavy rain this morning, an ancient tamarind tree was uprooted and fell on a Camry parked on Ngo Quyen Street, Hoan Kiem District, in front of the State Bank Square. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. At the scene, the trunk of the ancient tree crushed the rear and side of the car.
The leader of the Hanoi Traffic Police Team No. 1 dispatched a task force of four officers to the scene to manage traffic. The cause of the incident is still under investigation.
The trunk of the ancient tree crushed the rear and side of the car. (Photo: FB)
Earlier, around 12:40 PM yesterday, a century-old rain tree suddenly fell across Hang Luoc Street in Hang Ma Ward, Hoan Kiem District, causing traffic congestion in the area.
When it fell, the rain tree, with a diameter of nearly 50 cm, uprooted and blocked the road. At that time, the street was sparsely populated, with eateries only offering takeout, so there were no large crowds.
Upon receiving the report, the Hoan Kiem District Police organized to guide and redirect traffic for residents coming from Hang Cot Street towards Hang Ga and Hang Dieu streets to the Hoan Kiem Lake area. They also contacted relevant authorities to cut the tree into sections and clear the road.
Large tree blocking Hang Luoc Street. (Photo: FB)
In light of the flooding caused by the effects of the tropical depression, the Northeast monsoon, and the incoming Storm Kompasu approaching the East Sea, there is a risk of dangerous natural disasters (storms on top of storms, floods on top of floods) amid the complex COVID-19 pandemic. The General Department of Disaster Prevention and Control (PCTT) has requested localities to closely monitor the developments of natural disasters and weather. The steering committee and various ministries, sectors, and localities should develop response scenarios for storms and floods in the next ten days.
The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting will provide early warnings about flooding after Storm No. 7 and Storm Kompasu; identify dangerous areas at sea to guide vessels. Localities should prepare food and essential supplies in case of isolation; review and be ready with plans to ensure the safety of dikes, reservoirs, and mineral extraction areas.
At the same time, enhance information and communication to all levels of government and residents to proactively respond to storms and the COVID-19 pandemic. Maintain rescue and emergency forces to be ready for assistance and handling when needed. Strengthen forces and organize 24/7 disaster response teams, regularly report on any incidents that occur.
