As heavy rainfall inundates Hanoi's riverside districts, residents are rushing to evacuate children, the elderly, and essential belongings to safer ground. The rising water levels, particularly in areas outside the city's flood embankments, have caused widespread concern, prompting families to flee to higher ground or return to their rural homes.

By noon on September 11, many narrow streets in Phuc Tan (Hoan Kiem) were submerged, with water levels exceeding one meter in some areas. The Red River, which runs through Hanoi, was expected to reach its peak by mid-day, surpassing the level 2 flood alert.

By noon, many areas were flooded to a depth of over 1 meter. Water had entered homes and submerged numerous vehicles.

Amid the rising water, residents like Hoa had no choice but to evacuate her family. “The water flooded our home, and we feared it would continue to rise, so we used a basin to move our children out of the house,” Hoa said as she relocated to her mother’s home in Ha Dong District.

Boats and makeshift rafts have become common sights as residents scramble to save their most valuable treasures. In the flooded alleyways, neighbors are working together to move items to higher ground while they still can.

Children were carried by their parents across flooded areas and moved to safety.

Some residents, such as Yen and Thom, decided to return to their hometowns to escape the rising waters. “We woke up to heavy rain and noticed the water level rising fast,” Yen explained, as she packed up her belongings in preparation for departure.

Others, like Phan Thi Chien, are making the best of a difficult situation. “I was prepared,” said the 45-year-old as she cooked lunch using a battery-powered light. “We were warned about power cuts last night, and this flood is the worst I’ve seen since 2000.”

Despite the ongoing deluge, life goes on for many residents. Cao Thang, wading through knee-deep water, made a quick trip to buy instant noodles and other essentials, expecting the possibility of worsening conditions.

Thermos flasks and rechargeable lamps are items that residents have prepared in case of power outages due to flooding.

Residents living near the Red River, especially in areas near Long Bien and Chuong Duong bridges, began evacuating early on September 11. Many of these riverside communities are vulnerable to flooding, and authorities have warned that water levels may continue to rise over the coming days .

Nguyen Hue