Vietnam is facing a severe flood crisis in Hoi An and Da Nang with tourists disrupted by severe storms and rising floodwaters

Published on October 29, 2025

Central Vietnam has been plunged into chaos as torrential rains and severe flooding sweep away major tourist towns, including Hue, Hoi An and Da Nang. The ongoing storm season has brought record rainfall to the area, flooding streets, homes and businesses. With thousands of residents and tourists affected, the situation continues to evolve, with evacuations underway and vital services disrupted.

Major cities are submerged in flood waters

Vietnam’s central provinces have been severely affected by torrential rains, with flood waters reaching alarming levels. In Hue, a city famous for its imperial history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, floods reached two meters in some areas. Of the 40 municipalities in Hue, 32 were flooded, leading to widespread evacuations.

In Hoi An, a city famous for its ancient charm and vibrant cultural heritage, the streets have been completely flooded, and it is now difficult to access main areas. The popular coastal city of Da Nang was not spared the impact either. The flooding caused extensive damage to infrastructure, with more than 306,000 homes and businesses in the region experiencing power outages.

Authorities responded quickly, using boats to evacuate people from flooded areas. The Vietnamese government has deployed emergency services to help affected residents and tourists, while rescue operations continue in the most affected areas.

Travel disruptions: Flights and rail services have been affected

While air travel to and from Da Nang and Hue continues to operate as scheduled, severe weather has disrupted other forms of transportation. The Vietnam Railway Company has suspended train services between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City due to severe flooding along the railway lines.

For those who rely on trains to travel, this suspension has caused significant delays. As roads are also impassable in some areas, travelers are advised to stay in close contact with airlines or transportation providers to confirm their travel status. Those planning to travel by train should consider alternative routes or adjust their travel plans accordingly.

Continuous weather warnings and safety precautions

The Vietnam National Hydrometeorological Forecasting Center has issued a warning of continued heavy rainfall in central Vietnam, with the risk of more severe storms. As the weather continues to deteriorate, the area may see rising flood waters, strong winds, and possible tornadoes. It is possible that the waves of the North-East Sea will rise to a height of up to five meters during the next few days.

In light of the forecast, travelers are urged to stay informed and monitor local weather updates regularly. It is essential to follow local authority guidance and prepare for further disruption. The authorities are working to reach isolated communities and ensure that they receive basic supplies.

Travel advice from the US and UK governments

The US and UK embassies have issued warnings about travel to Vietnam, urging citizens to be cautious. The US Embassy warned of the continued risk of floods, landslides and flash floods in central Vietnam, especially in the cities of Hue, Hoi An and Da Nang. US travelers are encouraged to follow local safety instructions and stay informed of weather developments.

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has also given similar advice, warning travelers that the tropical storm season, which runs from May to November, can cause major travel disruptions. Although the US State Department has not imposed restrictions on non-essential travel to Vietnam, it strongly advises tourists to remain flexible and prepared for sudden changes in their travel plans.

Can you cancel your trip and get a refund?

If you are considering canceling or changing your trip due to flooding, it is important to know that the FCO has advised against non-essential travel to Vietnam. Therefore, holiday providers are under no obligation to provide refunds for trips unless travel advice changes.

Tourists concerned about their insurance coverage should check whether their policies cover natural disasters, as some insurance plans may offer protection in the event of cancellations caused by unexpected events such as floods. However, without an official government warning against travel, it may be difficult to claim a refund or cancel bookings for a full refund.

conclusion

Persistent floods in central Vietnam, including cities such as Hue, Hoi An and Da Nang, are causing major disruption to daily life and tourism. While some flights continue to operate, train services have been halted, and key infrastructure has been severely affected. As the storm season continues, the weather is expected to get worse, and tourists are advised to remain flexible in their plans.

Those currently in Vietnam should stay informed of 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 prepare for the possibility of further disruption.