Torrential rain and lightning swept across several parts of Ho Chi Minh City during the evening rush hour on September 18, causing severe disruption to traffic and daily activities.
At times, rain fell in sheets, reducing visibility and forcing many residents to stop and seek shelter or quickly put on raincoats before continuing their journeys.
The downpour began shortly after 6 pm and affected a wide area, including Saigon Ward, Xuan Hoa Ward, Binh Trung Ward, Thu Duc Ward, Linh Xuan Ward, Tam Binh Ward, Hiep Binh Ward and Di An Ward.
Heavy rain quickly turned roads slippery and caused water levels to rise. Motorcyclists were forced to slow down and navigate carefully through hazardous conditions.
By 7 pm, floodwater had covered large sections of Nguyen Tri Phuong Street and Road 5 in Di An Ward. Water spilled onto pavements and, in some areas, reached nearly half a metre in depth.
Motorbikes stalled while passing along Road 5 in Di An Ward (Photo: Hoang Huong).
Many motorists pulled over and waited under shop awnings for water levels to subside before resuming their journeys. Several vehicles reportedly stalled while attempting to pass through flooded sections of road.
Photo: Hoang Huong
According to the Southern Regional Hydro-Meteorological Centre, thunderclouds are expected to continue developing in the coming hours, bringing further rainfall to affected areas before expanding into neighbouring districts.
Forecasters warned that heavy rain could trigger flooding in low-lying areas, urban districts and locations along rivers and canals.
Authorities advised residents to monitor weather warnings closely and avoid travelling through deeply flooded areas or locations with strong water currents. People were also urged to remain alert to potential hazards from trees, advertising boards and other structures that could be affected by thunderstorms and strong winds.