Da Nang market paralyzed after unexpected rain

The current Da Nang City is formed by merging the former Da Nang City and neighboring Quang Nam Province, effective from July 1, as part of the recent major administrative restructuring in which Vietnam’s total number of provinces and cities was reduced to 34 from 63.

Lien Chieu Ward was established by merging Hoa Khanh Bac Ward and part of Hoa Lien Commune.

The prolonged rain caused severe flooding on several streets in Da Nang. 

The Thanh Vinh Market area, located on Au Co Street, was among the hardest hit.

Floodwaters surged rapidly from higher ground, sweeping through the market with strong currents. 

Many vendors were caught off guard, with some goods washed away and mud carried into the stalls.

On Sunday morning, the area around the market remained muddy, with large puddles still visible. 

Inside the market, vendors were busy removing mud, cleaning, and sorting through salvageable items.

Le Thi Kieu Loan, a vendor selling household goods at the market, said merchants had to struggle through the floodwaters last night to save their belongings. 

Cleanup efforts began during the night and continued into the morning.

“It’s rare to have such heavy rain and fast-rising water in the middle of summer," Loan said.

"We couldn’t react in time, and many items were swept away. 

"Especially goods like blankets, pillows, mats, and electronics—once soaked, they’re likely uúnellable."

Not far away, Nguyen Ly’s stall also suffered major losses.

According to Ly, strong currents toppled shelves, washing away lightweight items such as basins, towels, and toilet paper.

Many goods are now caked in mud. Ly had to call in friends to help clean up, hoping to reopen her stall soon.

She estimated the damage to exceed VND10 million (US$380.5).

Vendors selling fashion items also faced heavy losses.

Pham Thi Hang, who sells sports shoes and clothing, said many products were damaged by mud.

"Yesterday, the water rose nearly half a meter, flooding our storage area," Hang said.

"Shoes and clothes got soaked. 

"We now have to wash and dry them before selling at lower prices to recover some of the cost."

Vendors explained that Thanh Vinh Market is located in a low-lying area near the foot of a hill. 

During heavy rain, water rushes down rapidly and drains poorly, leading to frequent flooding.

Many vendors rent stalls, so they cannot independently raise the flooring or make structural changes.

“We hope local authorities will soon improve the drainage system and find effective solutions to end the recurring flooding that has plagued us for years,” said Le Thi Kieu Loan.

On Sunday morning, dozens of police officers, along with local militia and security personnel from Lien Chieu Ward were deployed to assist residents in cleaning up mud following the flood.