HA LONG BAY, Vietnam (AP) – A tragic accident occurred on Saturday afternoon when a boat carrying tourists capsized during a sudden thunderstorm while on a sightseeing tour in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. Reports indicate that the incident resulted in the deaths of 37 individuals, with five others still reported missing.
The capsized vessel, known as the Wonder Sea, was carrying a total of 48 passengers along with five crew members, all of whom were Vietnamese. This popular tourist destination attracted families, including approximately 20 children who were part of the group from Hanoi.
Rescue operations were launched immediately following the capsizing, leading to the successful rescue of 11 people. However, the total number of rescues was revised down from the initial report of 12 as authorities assessed the situation. Tragically, search teams recovered several bodies near the site of the incident, with a notable case being that of a 14-year-old boy who managed to survive after being trapped inside the overturned hull for four hours.
The capsizing was attributed to strong winds that swept through the region unexpectedly. Eyewitness accounts and reports from local news sources highlight the chaos that ensued during the storm. The situation is further complicated by the imminent arrival of a tropical storm in the area, with Storm Wipha forecasted to impact Vietnam’s northern region, including the coast of Ha Long Bay, in the coming week.
Rescue efforts continue as authorities work diligently to locate the five individuals who remain unaccounted for. The community is grappling with this disaster as families await news about their loved ones. Emergency services and search teams are on high alert, coordinating efforts amidst challenging weather conditions.
This incident serves as a solemn reminder of the potential dangers associated with maritime tourism, particularly in regions prone to sudden weather changes. As the investigation into the capsizing unfolds, authorities will likely focus on ensuring the safety of tourists in the future to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
