Flooding topples section of Hue Citadel wall

The collapse along Dang Thai Than Street was confirmed by the Center for Conservation of Hue Monuments. This section is part of the historic complex that served as the political and administrative heart of the Nguyen Dynasty, constructed between 1804 and 1833.

The section of Hue Imperial Citadel's wall that has collapsed following historic flooding. Photo by the Center for Conservation of Hue Monuments

The conservation center has secured the damaged area, established barriers, covered the portion with tarps, and placed warning signs to protect residents, tourists, and staff.

A survey conducted on Monday by the center, in collaboration with the Hue City Department of Construction, found that the structure was severely weakened, noting it consisted of many detached bricks with poor connections. The wall is built in three layers, featuring outer layers of brick and a core filled with clay. Authorities observed that several nearby wall sections also exhibit signs of tilting, cracking, and weakening, raising concerns they may continue to shift if heavy rains persist.

The center has formally reported the natural disaster to the Hue City People's Committee. They proposed that relevant units conduct a detailed survey, thoroughly assess the damage, and recommend appropriate remedial solutions. The center emphasized its commitment to coordinating with authorities on emergency measures while also researching long-term strategies to ensure the durability and preservation of the entire Hue Monuments Complex.

The wall failure comes as central Vietnam endures historic rainfall, with Hue at the center, since Oct. 25. The immense volume of water resulted in flooding of 0.5–1 meter deep inside the Imperial Citadel, which covers about 36 hectares.

On the evening of Oct. 27, the water level in the Huong peaked at 5.05 m, submerging 32 out of 40 communes and wards in Hue City by 1–2 m.

The Imperial City, situated on the north bank of the Huong River, was entirely engulfed by the floodwaters.

The week of record-breaking weather has led to a rising death toll across central Vietnam, reaching 40 by Tuesday. Fourteen of those fatalities were recorded in Hue, with most of the remainder occurring in Da Nang City.

Eight communes and wards in Hue remain flooded at approximately 0.3–0.5 m.