Published on
October 29, 2025
Central Vietnam has been plunged into chaos as heavy rainfall and severe flooding have swept through key tourist cities, including Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang. The ongoing storm season has brought record-breaking rainfall to the region, submerging streets, homes, and businesses. As thousands of residents and tourists are affected, the situation continues to evolve, with evacuations underway and critical services disrupted.
Major Cities Overwhelmed by Floodwaters
The central provinces of Vietnam have been heavily impacted by the torrential downpours, with floodwaters reaching alarming levels. In Hue, a city renowned for its imperial history and UNESCO World Heritage sites, flooding has reached up to two meters in some areas. Of the 40 communes in Hue, 32 have been submerged, forcing widespread evacuations.
In Hoi An, a city famous for its ancient charm and vibrant cultural heritage, streets are completely flooded, and key areas are now inaccessible. Da Nang, a popular coastal city, has not escaped the impact either. The flooding has caused significant damage to infrastructure, with over 306,000 homes and businesses in the region experiencing power outages.
Authorities have responded quickly, using boats to evacuate people from flooded areas. The Vietnamese government has deployed emergency services to assist affected residents and tourists, while rescue operations continue in the most devastated areas.
Travel Disruptions: Flights and Rail Services Affected
While air travel to and from Da Nang and Hue continues to operate as scheduled, the severe weather has disrupted other forms of transportation. Vietnam Railways Corporation has suspended train services between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City due to the extensive flooding along the rail routes.
For those relying on trains for travel, this suspension has caused significant delays. With roads also impassable in some areas, travelers are advised to stay in close contact with their airlines or transport providers to confirm their travel status. Those who planned to travel by train should consider alternative routes or adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Ongoing Weather Warnings and Safety Precautions
The Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has issued a warning for continued heavy rainfall in central Vietnam, with the threat of more intense storms. As the weather continues to deteriorate, the region could experience even higher floodwaters, strong winds, and possible tornadoes. Waves in the Northeast Sea could rise to as high as five meters over the next few days.
In light of the forecast, travelers are urged to stay informed and monitor local weather updates regularly. It’s critical to follow local authority guidance and be prepared for further disruptions. Authorities are working to reach isolated communities and ensure that they have access to essential supplies.
Travel Advisory from the US and UK Governments
Both the US and UK embassies have issued travel advisories for Vietnam, urging citizens to exercise caution. The US Embassy has warned of continued risks of flooding, landslides, and flash floods in central Vietnam, particularly in the cities of Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang. American travelers are encouraged to follow local safety instructions and stay updated on weather developments.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has also provided similar advice, cautioning travelers that the tropical storm season, which runs from May to November, can cause significant travel disruptions. While the FCDO has not restricted non-essential travel to Vietnam, it strongly advises tourists to remain flexible and prepared for sudden changes to their travel plans.
Can You Cancel Your Trip and Get a Refund?
If you are considering canceling or altering your trip due to the flooding, it’s important to know that the UK Foreign Office has not advised against non-essential travel to Vietnam. Therefore, holiday providers are not obligated to offer refunds for trips unless the travel advice changes.
Tourists concerned about their insurance coverage should check whether their policies cover natural disasters, as some insurance plans may offer protection for cancellations caused by unforeseen events such as floods. However, without an official government warning against travel, it may be challenging to claim refunds or cancel bookings for a full refund.
Conclusion
The ongoing flooding in central Vietnam, including cities like Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang, is causing significant disruption to both daily life and tourism. While some flights continue to operate, train services have been halted, and key infrastructure has been severely impacted. As the storm season continues, the weather is expected to worsen, and tourists are advised to remain flexible with their plans.
Those currently in Vietnam should stay updated with local weather reports and follow any instructions from authorities to ensure their safety. For those planning to visit in the coming days, it is essential to stay informed and be prepared for the possibility of further disruptions.
