Hanoi's Construction Department Defines Flooding Criteria
Hanoi's Construction Department has clarified that flooding is defined as water levels rising above 30 cm

Hanoi has taken proactive measures to address potential flooding caused by heavy rainfall, which is currently impacting the northern region of Vietnam. The city has arranged for emergency response teams to be on duty 24 hours a day, ready to operate pumping stations and manage water drainage effectively.
The recent weather patterns have led to intense rainfall, with some areas experiencing nearly 100mm of rain. In response, the Hanoi People's Committee has mandated the continuous readiness of emergency teams to tackle flooding in several neighborhoods, particularly in low-lying areas like Co Linh and Dam Quang Trung, which are known for severe flooding.
Bui Ngoc Uyen, Deputy Head of the Environmental System and Digital Transformation Department of the Hanoi Drainage Company, stated that they have implemented a four-on-the-spot approach since August 17, 2026. This strategy includes inspecting the entire drainage system to address any blockages or bottlenecks, ensuring that the teams are prepared to respond effectively to flooding incidents.
The Yen So Pumping Station, which serves as the main drainage facility for the To Lich River basin, has five pumping units with a capacity of 3 m³/s and 15 emergency pumps with a capacity of 5 m³/s already operational. These measures are in place to lower water levels in rivers and lakes ahead of the rainfall.
As the situation develops, the Hanoi People's Committee has instructed the Department of Construction to closely monitor weather forecasts and rainfall warnings. They will adjust their water drainage management strategies based on real-time conditions, including water levels in rivers, lakes, and drainage systems.
With the ongoing infrastructure projects in the city, the drainage system has been under strain, making these emergency preparations crucial in preventing severe flooding during heavy rain events.