Hanoi commuters stranded as floods trigger gridlock

Heavy overnight rain flooded parts of Hanoi on Wednesday morning, bringing peak-hour traffic to a near standstill and leaving some commuters stranded for hours on journeys that would normally take far less time.

The downpour continued from the night of September 15 into the early hours of September 16, causing localised flooding across the capital. Waterlogged roads combined with morning traffic to create long queues, stalled vehicles and difficult conditions for motorcyclists and pedestrians.

Some residents reported being on the road for close to two hours without reaching their workplaces.

Roads submerged across the city

Flooding was reported on a number of major and residential routes, including Co Linh, Ngoc Lam, Phu Xa, Hoa Bang, Trieu Khuc and Giang Van Minh. The Hanoi Drainage Company said rain had fallen widely across the city.

Other heavily affected areas included Nguyen Tuan, Nguyen Trai and Quang Trung, where deep water made travel slow and hazardous. In some places, water was reported at about 50 centimetres deep.

Motorbikes stalled in floodwater, forcing riders to push them through submerged sections or seek assistance. Cars also struggled to move through congested routes as drivers attempted to avoid the deepest areas.

Rush hour disruption continues

The flooding arrived during the busiest part of the morning commute, amplifying the disruption. Traffic backed up for kilometres on several roads, including routes around Long Bien and Ha Dong.

Hanoi drainage crews were deployed to monitor affected locations and support water drainage. Authorities have warned that wet conditions could continue while the wider weather system remains over northern Vietnam.

The problems follow several days of rain that have already tested the city’s drainage and road network.

What it means for foreigners in Vietnam

Foreign residents and visitors in Hanoi should allow extra travel time during heavy rain, particularly in the early morning and evening. Avoid riding through deep water where possible, as roads may conceal potholes, open drains or stalled vehicles. Checking local weather and traffic updates before leaving can help avoid the worst-affected routes.

16.09.2026