Heavy rains and high tides caused localized flooding in Ho Chi Minh City on Sunday, making travel difficult on several low-lying streets. Water levels rose nearly halfway up vehicle wheels on Tran Xuan Soan Street in Tan Thuan Ward. Motorcyclists, a common mode of transport in the city, were seen struggling to handle through the floodwaters, with one incident captured by photographer Huu Duy on the evening of September 13, 2026, highlighting the challenges faced by residents during such weather events.
Flooding Disrupts Travel and Infrastructure
In Quang Tri Province, floodwaters swept three sand-dredging barges into the area around the My Chanh railway bridge, causing significant disruption. Hundreds of police officers and railway workers were mobilized to clear the area after the barges became stuck beneath the bridge. The incident occurred around noon, and the swift response was necessary to prevent further damage to the railway infrastructure and ensure the safety of the surrounding area. The operation involved careful planning to remove the barges without causing additional harm to the bridge or the nearby community.
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The flooding also impacted education, with Quang Tri’s Department of Education and Training advising schools to allow students to stay home in areas at risk of flooding and landslides due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. This precautionary measure aimed to protect students from potential dangers associated with severe weather conditions, emphasizing the importance of safety in educational settings during natural disasters.
Economic and Social Impact
The economic slowdown is evident at Ba Chieu Market in Ho Chi Minh City, where around a quarter of stalls have ceased operations. Since the beginning of the year, 54 businesses have applied to terminate operations, and 24 others have requested stall transfers. This trend reflects the broader economic challenges faced by small business owners in the city, who are struggling to maintain profitability amidst declining customer traffic and rising operational costs. The market, once a busy hub of activity, now shows signs of stagnation, with many stalls vacant and others operating at reduced capacity.
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Meanwhile, authorities discovered 11 more sets of martyrs’ remains at a second burial trench in Area A of Le Thi Rieng Park, bringing the total found there to 627. The discovery is part of ongoing efforts to honor and identify the remains of those who sacrificed their lives during the war. The site has become a focal point for historical preservation and remembrance, with each new finding adding to the collective memory of the nation’s past.
In Hue City, efforts are underway to develop a night-time district around Dong Ba Market and Bach Dang Street. Plans also include utilizing the Nhu Y River for new tourism and service products. The initiative, led by Chairman of the Hue City People’s Committee Le Tri Thanh, aims to boost the local economy by creating lively evening attractions and leveraging the river’s scenic beauty to attract tourists. This development is expected to enhance Hue’s appeal as a cultural and historical destination while providing new opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs.