The Phong Chau Bridge, a vital transportation link in Northern Vietnam, tragically collapsed in the aftermath of super typhoon Yagi, causing chaos and devastation. The collapse occurred in the province of Phu Tho, approximately 80 kilometers away from Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. The incident resulted in ten cars and two scooters plunging into the Red River, with three individuals rescued and taken to the hospital while 13 others remain missing.
Efforts are underway to locate and rescue the missing individuals, with rescue teams conducting operations in the area. The collapse of the 375-meter steel structure has prompted authorities to instruct the military to construct a pontoon bridge urgently to restore connectivity.
Super typhoon Yagi, the most powerful storm in Asia this year, has left a trail of destruction in its wake. Since making landfall in Vietnam, the storm has claimed over 60 lives, with casualties primarily attributed to landslides and flash floods. Tragically, victims include a one-year-old boy, a newborn baby, and a 68-year-old woman.
Moreover, the storm has left 240 individuals injured and approximately 1.5 million residents without power. Prior to reaching Vietnam, Yagi had already caused significant damage in southern China and the Philippines, resulting in 24 fatalities.
Authorities in Vietnam have evacuated nearly 50,000 people from coastal areas and issued warnings urging residents to remain indoors. The impact of the typhoon led to the suspension of operations at Hanoi's Noi Ba Airport, the country's largest airport, although normal activities have since resumed.
As the storm progresses westward, there are concerns of further flooding and landslides in the region. Climate change is believed to be a contributing factor to the intensification and altered behavior of typhoons, with storms forming closer to the coast, strengthening rapidly, and lingering over land for extended periods.
The aftermath of super typhoon Yagi serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of natural disasters and the importance of preparedness and swift response in mitigating their impact on vulnerable communities.
