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Transition of flooding patterns and environmental flow in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam over the last 2 decades

Author

Listed:
  • Huynh Vuong Thu Minh

    (Can Tho University)

  • Nguyen Dinh Giang Nam

    (Can Tho University)

  • Tran Sy Nam

    (Can Tho University)

  • Nguyen Cong

    (Can Tho University)

  • Pankaj Kumar

    (Institute for Global Environmental Strategies)

  • Nigel K. Downes

    (Can Tho University)

Abstract

Over the past 2 decades, the Vietnamese Mekong Delta has undergone significant changes in flooding patterns and environmental flow, driven by climate change and human activities. This study investigates these transitions, focusing on the impacts of rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and extensive dam construction upstream. Using the Indicators of Hydrologic Alteration in combination with Flow Duration Curves, we quantify the changes in hydrological parameters and assess their ecological and socio-economic consequences. Our findings reveal a marked increase in low flow events, a reduction in the duration of high flows, and a shift in seasonal flow timing. These changes have disrupted the natural flow regime, with significant repercussions for aquatic ecosystems, agriculture, and local livelihoods. The study emphasizes the urgency of adopting holistic transboundary water management strategies to mitigate the adverse consequences of hydrological changes and ensure sustainable development in the region.

Suggested Citation

  • Huynh Vuong Thu Minh & Nguyen Dinh Giang Nam & Tran Sy Nam & Nguyen Cong & Pankaj Kumar & Nigel K. Downes, 2025. "Transition of flooding patterns and environmental flow in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam over the last 2 decades," Natural Hazards: Journal of the International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, Springer;International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, vol. 121(11), pages 12665-12694, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:nathaz:v:121:y:2025:i:11:d:10.1007_s11069-025-07291-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s11069-025-07291-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Rawshan Ali & Alban Kuriqi & Shadan Abubaker & Ozgur Kisi, 2019. "Hydrologic Alteration at the Upper and Middle Part of the Yangtze River, China: Towards Sustainable Water Resource Management Under Increasing Water Exploitation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(19), pages 1-16, September.
    2. A. Smajgl & T. Q. Toan & D. K. Nhan & J. Ward & N. H. Trung & L. Q. Tri & V. P. D. Tri & P. T. Vu, 2015. "Responding to rising sea levels in the Mekong Delta," Nature Climate Change, Nature, vol. 5(2), pages 167-174, February.
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