In light of this situation, the Gia Lai Provincial People's Committee has requested that departments, agencies, and localities proactively prevent and mitigate natural disasters, strengthen rescue and relief efforts, and be prepared to respond, especially in the remaining months of the year.
Local authorities must review and update their plans, prepare personnel, equipment, supplies, and logistics, to avoid being caught off guard or unprepared when natural disasters occur.
These requirements become even more significant when considering the reality. During the 2025 rainy season, thanks to proactive early response, Gia Lai organized the evacuation of thousands of households to safe areas, contributing to limiting human casualties. However, the historic floods in November still caused significant property damage, estimated at around 1,000 billion VND.
Right from the beginning of this year's rainy season, the reality has shown that the risks still exist. In early September, heavy rains caused severe flooding in many areas in the western part of the province, with water levels rising to nearly 1 meter in some places.
By mid-September, heavy rains continued to cause landslides in several areas in the eastern part of the province, threatening homes and forcing local authorities to urgently inspect, issue warnings, and plan for relocation.
This development shows that natural disasters can be unexpected, but preparation must not be reactive. Being proactive doesn't mean waiting for heavy rain to check vulnerable areas, waiting for rising water levels to evacuate people, or waiting for landslides to erect barriers.
Preventive measures must begin beforehand by reviewing areas at risk of flooding, flash floods, and landslides; identifying households that need to be relocated; inspecting reservoirs, dams, transportation infrastructure, power systems, and communication networks; and preparing personnel and resources to be mobilized immediately when needed.
The events of the past few days have shown that these preparations have been underway. In the eastern part of the province, authorities have inspected vulnerable points, surveyed areas at risk of deep flooding and isolation; and some flood drainage projects have been expedited in terms of dredging and clearing waterways.
It is crucial that these measures be implemented regularly, not just when storms are imminent. Response plans need to be realistic, clearly identifying hazardous areas, evacuation sites, personnel, equipment, and responsibilities for on-site handling.
Besides the proactive efforts of the government, people also need to raise their awareness of protecting themselves and their families, seriously heed warnings, and not be complacent in the face of rising floodwaters.
Lessons from 2025 and the heavy rains at the beginning of this season show that experience in responding is necessary, but it cannot replace vigilance and early preparation.
No one can stop storms. But better preparation, earlier warnings, and more timely action will help minimize unnecessary damage.
Source: https://baogialai.com.vn/chu-dong-ung-pho-voi-mua-bao-post601075.html
