Flash floods in Vietnam's northern region caused by heavy rain have killed 23 local people and left 46 others missing, according to local online newspaper VnExpress on Saturday.

The flash floods stroke the four districts of Bat Xat, Sapa, Bao Thang and Bao Yen in Lao Cai province on Friday night, claiming 20 lives, and leaving 45 people missing, the newspaper quoted the provincial Anti-Flood and Storm Steering Committee as reporting. Bat Xat was hardest hit with 11 deaths and 36 cases of missing.

The floods have inundated many road and rail sections, and houses in Lao Cai, blocking transport and rescue work.

Also on Friday night, a flash flood hit Ha Hoa district in Phu Tho province, killing three local people, leaving one person missing, and inundating some dyke sections, the newspaper said.

(Xinhua News Agency August 9, 2008)