Hydropower dam collapse forces mass evacuation in Vietnam’s Quang Nam province

In Quảng Nam province, central Vietnam, the Bắc Khê 1 hydropower dam experienced a catastrophic structural collapse, prompting the immediate evacuation of all residents in the downstream area. The collapse occurred on October 7, 2025, following heavy rains that inundated rivers and swollen upstream reservoirs. Witnesses reported loud cracking sounds before the water spillway and embankment failed. Authorities state that the entire population at risk, numbering in the hundreds of households, was moved before floodwaters surged downstream.

Authorities have not yet confirmed casualties or injuries; at the time of reporting, there were no confirmed fatalities. Search and rescue teams continue to monitor downstream areas for rapid flooding threats, and meteorological forecasts warn of more rainfall that could exacerbate downstream impacts.

Investigators have begun preliminary assessments of the dam’s design, age, maintenance record, and failure mechanism. Early hypotheses point to overtopping, internal erosion (piping), or foundation instability as contributing causes; however, detailed engineering diagnostics will be needed to confirm.

Photographs below published by VnExpress captures the consequences of the dam breach.