Tropical storm Chanthu has left 10 dead and four injured when it caused heavy rains, flash floods and landslides in northern mountain provinces, according to the National Steering Committee on Flood and Storm Control.

Repairing electric poles brought down by heavy rains. (Photo: VNA)

Ha Giang was the hardest hit province, with 7 locals reported dead, followed by Cao Bang (2) and Lao Cai (1).

The storm, which was downgraded to a low pressure system on July 22, also caused huge damage to houses, roads, bridges and rice and subsidiary crops in these provinces.

In Yen Bai alone, 132 houses were flooded and 22 others were severely damaged. Heavy downpour also submerged 18ha of rice and subsidiary crops and 5ha of fishponds.

In Bac Giang Province, 10 communes were completely isolated and more than 44,100ha of rice and subsidiary crops were submerged.

The National Steering Committee on Flood and Storm Control has asked the northern mountain provinces to keep a close watch on further developments of heavy rains and evacuate people living in the low-lying areas.

As rain continues to pour down and floodwaters in major rivers keep rising, the committee has asked the designated provinces to mobilise stand-by forces to work around the clock to protect the dyke system.

Chanthu was the second storm hitting the East Sea this year. The first, Conson, killed one when it made landfall last weekend.

VietNamNet/VOV