The rains over southern and central Vietnam have been ongoing since the end of October and several places have been flooded in episodes, especially when Typhoon Kalmaegi ravaged the country two weeks ago.
Rescue workers are now reportedly using boats in the provinces of Gia Lai and Dak Lak to reach people stranded on the top floors or roofs of buildings. In the popular coastal resort of Nha Trang, several blocks, including hundreds of cars, are under water.
Businessman Bui Quoc Vinh tells AFP that he himself is safe as he lives on the 24th floor, but that it is worse for employees and the shops and restaurants he owns.
"I'm worried about the furniture in my restaurants and shops, but I can't do anything about that at the moment. . . And my staff has to take care of their flooded homes," he says, adding that the water in some places is as high as two meters.
At least 41 people have died in the past week and nine are missing, according to the environment ministry. In addition, nearly 62,000 people have been evacuated from their homes and several major roads are impassable due to landslides. Around a million are without power.
