SPACEPHOTOS

Covering a total of 5790 sq. miles (15000 sq. km), the intensively cultivated delta of the Red River can be seen in this northeast-looking color infrared view. Though not visible due to clouds, the port city of Hai Phong is located near the top of the image. The Red River rises is Yunnan Province, South China. It flows 730 miles (1175 km) in a generally southeast direction through deep, narrow gorges. Near the city of Hanoi (not on image), the river forms its large delta. The Red River carries a large quantity of silt rich in iron oxide that gives it a red color. The river has an irregular flow and is subject to flooding, especially during the June-October high water period. Dikes and canals have been built to protect the delta from flooding. The Red River empties into the Gulf of Tonkin (South China Sea). Rice is the principal crop of the delta region.