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Hoi An Ancient Town Submerged in Floodwaters as Thousands Evacuate

Hoi An Ancient Town, one of Vietnam’s most iconic UNESCO heritage sites, is facing its worst flooding in decades. Since October 26, rising floodwaters have inundated large parts of the city, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate and rely on emergency supplies for survival.

As of 2 p.m. on October 29, local authorities confirmed that 29 wards and communes across Da Nang City have been severely flooded, including Hoi An. More than 5,800 households in the ancient town, accounting for over 80% of the area, are underwater, with depths ranging from 0.5 to 2 meters.

The Central Region Hydrometeorological Center reported that within the next 6 to 18 hours, water levels in the Vu Gia - Thu Bon river system are expected to continue rising, potentially surpassing the historic flood record of 1964. The flood peak at Hoi An is forecast to reach 3.5 meters, exceeding the previous record by 0.1 meters.

In response, the Da Nang City Party Committee and the People’s Committee have issued a series of urgent directives. Officials have been assigned to closely monitor affected areas, coordinate with local authorities, and lead flood response and recovery operations.

Over 6,100 personnel have been mobilized, including military units, border guards, police, and local self-defense forces. Rescue equipment includes vehicles, boats, and canoes to support evacuation and relief efforts. The Regional Defense Command has also deployed teams to reach isolated areas in Tra Leng Commune, delivering food, water, and essential supplies to more than 600 households.

As the floodwaters show no signs of receding, local authorities continue to prioritize evacuation and relief operations. Hoi An’s centuries-old streets, temples, and homes now lie under deep water, and the coming days will be critical in protecting both lives and the town’s invaluable cultural heritage.