Super Typhoon Yagi has wreaked havoc in Vietnam, causing widespread destruction and claiming the lives of at least 14 people. The powerful typhoon, described as one of the strongest to hit the region in the past decade, made landfall in northern Vietnam with winds exceeding 149km/h (93 mph) before ultimately weakening into a tropical depression.

The devastating effects of Yagi were felt across the country, with roofs being ripped off buildings, boats sinking, and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall. Tragically, a family of four met their untimely demise in a landslide in the mountainous Hoa Binh province of northern Vietnam. The incident occurred after several hours of torrential rain brought by the typhoon, when a hillside collapsed onto their home.

In addition to the fatal landslide, the defense ministry's disaster management agency reported that 10 others lost their lives in storm-related incidents. Some were crushed by falling trees or drifting boats. The city of Hai Phong experienced significant flooding, with several areas submerged under half a meter (1.6 feet) of floodwaters. The damage caused by Yagi resulted in power outages and extensive damage to power lines and electric poles.

At Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately 70km (43 miles) north of Hai Phong, fishermen were left in shock as they assessed the destruction caused by the typhoon. Reports from Reuters mention that a dozen individuals were reported missing at sea near Ha Long, with rescue operations expected to commence once conditions improve. However, the accuracy of this report could not be immediately verified.

Residents also reported serious damage to at least 23 boats at the Hai Au boat lock on Tuan Chau Island. Meanwhile, the cityscape was marked by toppled motorbikes amidst piles of building rubble and shattered glass, as roofs were blown off buildings.

Before reaching Vietnam, Super Typhoon Yagi had already unleashed its fury on southern China and the Philippines, resulting in the loss of at least 24 lives and leaving dozens injured. The extent of the damage caused by this powerful storm serves as a reminder of the immense destructive power of nature and the need for continued vigilance in preparing for and responding to such events.