Da Nang: The death toll from the severe floods and landslides in central Vietnam has risen to 55, as rescue teams continue to search for people still missing after a week of relentless rain. Officials said at least 13 people have not yet been found, and the number may change as operations continue.

Heavy rainfall, measured at more than 1900 millimetres in some areas, triggered widespread destruction across several provinces. Dak Lak reported the highest number of deaths, with 27 people killed, while Khanh Hoa recorded 14 deaths. Thousands of families have been displaced as swollen rivers burst their banks and landslides swept through villages.

Authorities said more than 235000 homes were flooded and nearly 80000 hectares of crops were damaged. The disaster has caused major losses to agriculture, including coffee farms that are vital to the regional economy. Roads in many areas remain blocked, and power outages have affected hundreds of thousands of people. Although the water levels have begun to fall, many communities are still cut off and waiting for aid.

Local officials estimate economic losses at nearly nine trillion dong, and they warn that the figure may rise as assessments continue. Vietnam has experienced several extreme weather events this year, with natural disasters causing around two billion dollars in damage nationwide even before this latest flooding.

Weather agencies caution that more rain may still fall in some central provinces, raising fears of fresh landslides or renewed flooding. Rescue teams and volunteers say they are working round the clock to reach stranded families and to deliver food, clean water and essential supplies.

As recovery efforts continue, the government has urged communities to remain alert and follow safety instructions, especially in mountainous regions where the ground remains unstable.