Terrifying Floods Devastate Central Vietnam Ninety Dead and Twelve Missing as Travel Nightmare Strikes Iconic Tourist Destinations

Published on November 23, 2025

Central Vietnam, encompassing popular travel destinations like Dak Lak, Khanh Hoa, Lam Dong, and Gia Lai provinces, is grappling with a catastrophic flooding disaster that has claimed 90 confirmed lives, with 12 people still missing. Verified by Vietnam’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Disaster and Dyke Management Authority, this tragic toll reflects the extensive devastation caused by relentless heavy rains and landslides since late October 2025, severely impacting the region’s tourism and agricultural sectors.

Severe Flood Impact on Lives and Infrastructure

Over recent weeks, parts of central Vietnam received unprecedented rainfall exceeding 1,900 mm in some areas. Torrential downpours caused widespread flooding and deadly landslides, particularly along the Da Nhim River in Lam Dong and neighboring provinces. The floods have submerged approximately 235,000 homes, leaving thousands displaced. Agricultural lands have suffered heavily, with about 80,000 hectares of crops destroyed, including coffee plantations vital to the local economy.

This deluge has not only flooded homes but has also disrupted electricity supply to over half a million households and businesses, compounding the difficulties for rescue operations. Vital roads, railways, and airports have been damaged or blocked, severely limiting both local mobility and travel convenience for visitors. In Khanh Hoa, severe floodwaters damaged two suspension bridges, isolating communities.

Impact on Tourism and Local Economy

Central Vietnam’s scenic beaches and highland attractions, highly favored by travelers worldwide, have been overshadowed by the disaster’s aftermath. Dak Lak and Khanh Hoa provinces account for a large proportion of the fatalities—with Dak Lak recording over 60 deaths. These provinces are popular among tourists for their cultural sites and natural beauty but are now hotspots of rescue and recovery operations.

The coffee sector, crucial in Dak Lak and Lam Dong, faces a dire crisis as floodwaters inundate plantations and harvesting operations stall. The tourism sector is also heavily disrupted. Many tour operators are advising travelers to reconsider or postpone trips for safety reasons due to ongoing flood risks and damaged infrastructure.

Ongoing Rescue Efforts and Government Actions

Vietnam’s government has launched large-scale response measures, deploying over 21,000 military, police, and rescue personnel across the affected areas. Helicopters deliver aid to isolated villages, while rescue teams use boats to reach residents trapped in rising waters, in some cases breaking into flooded homes to evacuate families.

The government has mandated emergency aid provisions including food, water purification tablets, and clothing to the affected communities. Efforts to repair homes are underway, with plans to provide temporary shelters and rebuild permanent houses by January 2026, ahead of the Lunar New Year.

Authorities strongly advise avoiding travel to flood-affected regions unless necessary, emphasizing safety due to damaged roads, unstable terrains prone to landslides, and ongoing flood risks.

Travel Safety Alert for Tourists and Visitors

Travel officials and experts have issued stern warnings for visitors planning to explore central Vietnam. The floods and landslides have rendered many roads unreliable or entirely blocked, and critical infrastructure like airports and railway lines are disrupted. Tourist hotspots including Nha Trang and Da Lat have experienced flooding of city blocks and landslides around scenic routes, affecting accessibility.

Those currently in the region are urged to closely follow local advisories, register with embassies if applicable, and cooperate with evacuation efforts. Given the ongoing rain forecasts, travelers must remain vigilant to rapidly changing conditions. Tourism operators recommend deferring travel plans until full clearance of safety hazards.

Human Stories and Community Resilience

Distressing images and reports have emerged of families stranded atop flooded rooftops, including children and elderly, appealing for help. Rescue teams have tirelessly reached out to these vulnerable groups. The region’s communities, many reliant on tourism and farming, face challenging recoveries as they cope with loss of homes and livelihoods.

Despite the devastation, the resilience and solidarity of the Vietnamese people stand out. Relief operations continue with urgency, reflecting a collective commitment to recovery.

Weather Outlook and Ongoing Risks

Meteorological experts forecast continued rainfall in the coming days, signaling potential for further flooding and landslides. Authorities remain on high alert and underscore the necessity of ongoing precautions, especially for residents and travelers in vulnerable zones.

Economic Consequences and Long-Term Impact

The government estimates economic losses from this flooding event at roughly 8.98 trillion Vietnamese dong (about $341 million). This figure encompasses damage to infrastructure, homes, agriculture, and the local coffee industry—all pillars of the region’s economy.

Nationwide, extreme weather events have caused 279 deaths or missing persons and economic damages exceeding $2 billion from January to October 2025, highlighting climate change’s increasing impact on Vietnam’s disaster patterns.

Central Vietnam’s renowned landscapes—from coastal beaches to verdant highlands—remain treasures, but the current crisis underscores the challenges facing travel and safety in disaster-prone regions. For tourism stakeholders and travelers alike, prioritizing safety and staying informed through verified local sources is crucial during this period.

The tragic flooding serves as a stark reminder of nature’s power and impacts on communities and economies. As recovery efforts ramp up, continued caution and awareness will help protect lives and livelihoods in this cherished travel destination and beyond.