HANOI - A tourist boat carrying families in Vietnam's Ha Long Bay capsized during a sudden storm on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of at least 34 individuals.

State media reports indicated that the vessel was transporting 48 passengers and five crew members when it capsized due to heavy rains and adverse weather conditions.

Most passengers were families, including over 20 children, who had traveled from the capital, Hanoi.

Local reports noted that rescuers managed to recover 34 bodies and saved 11 people.

Efforts were still ongoing to locate the eight individuals reported missing following the incident.

According to eyewitness accounts, the storm hit around 2 PM local time, characterized by a rapid deterioration in weather with dark skies, hailstones, and torrential rain accompanied by thunder and lightning.

A 10-year-old boy who was rescued described his experience of swimming through a gap and calling for help before being rescued by a passing vessel.

Vietnam's Prime Minister, Pham Minh Chinh, expressed condolences to the grieving families and has directed the defense and public security ministries to initiate urgent search and rescue operations.

The government stated that an investigation into the incident would be conducted to determine its cause and address any legal violations.

Torrential rain affected not only Ha Long Bay but also the northern parts of Vietnam, including Hanoi and surrounding provinces.

Reports indicated that several trees in the capital were toppled by strong winds.

Meteorologist Mai Van Khiem confirmed that the thunderstorms in northern Vietnam were not linked to Tropical Storm Wipha in the South China Sea, which had been previously monitored.

Ha Long Bay is recognized as one of Vietnam’s most treasured tourist destinations, attracting millions with its distinctive limestone islands and lush rainforests each year.

The region has experienced previous incidents, including the sinking of 30 vessels last year due to Typhoon Yagi's severe weather in the area.