Ho Chi Minh City on alert as October tides threaten to hit 1.87 meters

Ho Chi Minh City authorities have ordered agencies and local administrations to prepare for natural disasters as high tides are forecast to reach 1.82-1.87 meters at Thu Dau Mot station and 1.70-1.75 meters at Phu An station from October 27 to 29, exceeding Level 3 warning thresholds by up to 0.27 meters.

Thunderstorms, lightning, whirlwinds and strong gusts are forecast through October 10, potentially damaging trees, homes, roads and infrastructure. Localized heavy rain could cause flooding in areas with poor drainage, as well as inundation and landslides in low-lying areas and along rivers.

Ho Chi Minh City Chairman Nguyen Van Duoc has directed municipal departments and local authorities to closely monitor weather conditions and proactively implement disaster prevention and response plans.

Authorities must inspect vulnerable areas, particularly locations previously affected by heavy rain and deep flooding, and clear waterways to improve drainage. Areas at high risk of landslides must be inspected, with measures taken to protect residents.

Response forces have been instructed to set up checkpoints, issue warnings and direct traffic, preventing people and vehicles from entering deeply flooded or landslide-prone areas when conditions are unsafe. They must also be ready to assist with evacuations, rescue and relief operations.

The Department of Construction and infrastructure operators must review safety measures for underground structures, tunnels, irrigation systems, dikes and reservoirs. They must also ensure the effective operation of drainage outlets, tidal-control gates and pumping stations, while preparing personnel and equipment to handle incidents.

The city has also ordered authorities to inspect and prune trees and promptly clear fallen trees following heavy rain and thunderstorms. Police will deploy mobile water pumps to flooded areas and coordinate traffic management.

Agencies have been told to maintain round-the-clock duty, including on weekends and public holidays, to monitor developments and respond promptly to emergencies.