According to local media, at least 10 vehicles fell into the Red River following the collapse of the Phong Chau Bridge.
Authorities have confirmed that 13 people are currently missing in the aftermath of the bridge collapse.
Vietnam Bridge Collapse: At least 10 vehicles fell into the Red River after the Phong Chau Bridge collapsed, according to local media.
On Monday morning, the Phong Chau Bridge in Phu Tho province, northern Vietnam, collapsed as the region faced the impact of Typhoon Yagi. The 375-meter-long bridge gave way, sending motorbikes and cars plunging into the Red River.
WARNING – disturbing footage.
— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) September 9, 2024
In Vietnam, at least 13 people fell into the Hồng (Red) River after part of Phong Châu Bridge in Phú Thọ was swept away by floodwaters. About 10 vehicles and two motorbikes fell in. Rescue efforts are hindered by fast currents following Typhoon… pic.twitter.com/TUZSnL5EIe
Authorities have reported that 13 people are missing following the incident. Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc stated that it remains unclear if there have been any casualties. Rescue operations are underway, with a portion of the bridge still standing. Efforts are being made to build a pontoon bridge to restore access to the affected area.
This collapse adds to the ongoing devastation from Typhoon Yagi, the most powerful storm to hit the region in decades. The storm made landfall on Saturday and has resulted in at least 64 deaths, with severe flooding and landslides causing widespread damage in northern provinces.
In addition to the bridge collapse, a passenger bus carrying 20 people was swept away by a landslide in Cao Bang province. Rescue operations are being hindered by blocked roads and persistent heavy rains.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has announced emergency aid packages and directed the military to prioritize rescue and recovery efforts. The storm has also significantly disrupted northern Vietnam’s industrial hubs, with numerous factories facing power outages and severe damage.
Millions of households and businesses have lost power, with telecommunications cut off in many areas. More than 5.7 million customers were affected by power outages, though over 75% of power has been restored by Monday.
Industrial zones in Haiphong, a city with a population of two million, have suffered extensive damage. Factory roofs have been torn off, and workers are struggling to salvage equipment as heavy rains have flooded production plants. Factories of South Korean conglomerate LG Electronics in Haiphong also experienced significant damage, although no casualties among employees have been reported.
The Vietnam Meteorological Agency has warned of continued risks of flooding and landslides, with rainfall in northern regions reaching between 208 and 433 mm over the past 48 hours.
