Aimi ZulkifleeThe serene Central Highlands of Vietnam were recently jolted awake by a series of earthquakes. Starting on the evening of 30 Nov, a flurry of tremors rattled the region, with the strongest reaching magnitudes of 3.5 to 4.0. The epicentre of these seismic events was pinpointed near the border of Kon Tum province.
Image credit: Suchan via Canva Pro
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Nature’s fury unleashed
The earthquakes weren’t the only threat. They triggered a cascade of landslides, particularly in the picturesque Nam Tra My district. The force of nature was raw and terrifying. Large boulders, dislodged from the slopes of Ngoc Mong mountain, rolled perilously close to homes and even a local kindergarten.
A scare for locals and tourists
The sudden and powerful quakes sent shockwaves through local communities. Residents of Nam Tra My, especially those in Tu Hon village, were left shaken and fearful. Many described the experience as terrifying, with the ground seemingly trembling beneath their feet. The aftershocks continued, adding to the anxiety and uncertainty.
The impact extended beyond local residents. The region’s thriving tourism industry, which relies on its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, was also affected. The landslides and damaged infrastructure posed challenges to accessibility and safety, potentially deterring visitors.
Government response and recovery efforts
The Vietnamese government swiftly mobilised resources to address the crisis. Evacuations were carried out to protect residents from the threat of landslides. Emergency response teams were deployed to assess the damage and provide assistance to affected communities.
The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with local authorities, is working to restore tourism activities in the region. Efforts are underway to repair damaged infrastructure, improve safety measures, and reassure potential visitors.
Image credit: UBND xã Trà Don and Erudite Risk Facebook Page
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A call for caution and resilience
While the immediate danger may have subsided, the long-term impact of the earthquakes and landslides remains to be seen. Travellers planning to visit the Central Highlands are advised to stay informed about the latest updates and consult with local authorities.
As the region recovers, it’s a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness. By working together, the local communities and authorities can rebuild and emerge stronger from this ordeal.
