The state-run Thanh Nien newspaper reported that the typhoon was generating winds of up to as of 1000 GMT (3 pm PKT) and is forecast to make landfall in central Vietnam around 0100 on Monday, with its speed expected to slow as it approaches the coast.
The national weather forecast agency issued a stern warning: “This is a rapidly moving storm—nearly twice the average speed—with strong intensity and a broad area of impact.”
The agency cautioned that the storm “is capable of triggering multiple natural disasters simultaneously,” including powerful winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, flash floods, landslides, and coastal inundation. Northern and central provinces could receive up to of rain through October 1, with rivers rising by 9 meters and significant risks of flooding and landslides.
Response and Public Anxiety
The government confirmed that authorities in the central province of Ha Tinh have begun to evacuate more than 15,000 people, adding that thousands of troops were on standby for disaster relief.
Residents in Vinh, the capital of Nghe An province where landfall is anticipated, were seen rushing to secure homes, tie down boats, and stack sandbags or water-filled sacks on their rooftops.
“We already suffered from losses from recent Typhoon Kajiki this year and haven’t recovered yet,” said Bui Thi Tuyet, a 41-year-old resident. “Over the last 20 years living here, I have not felt this terrified because of storms.”
The Civil Aviation Authority announced that Vietnam suspended operations at four coastal airports starting Sunday, including Da Nang International Airport, and adjusted the departure times of several flights.
According to news site VnExpress, schools in the typhoon-affected area will be closed on Monday, with closures potentially extended as necessary.
The government reported that heavy rain has already initiated flooding in Hue and Quang Tri.
With its extensive coastline facing the South China Sea, Vietnam is highly susceptible to frequent and often deadly typhoons. Last year, Typhoon Yagi resulted in approximately 300 deaths and caused $3.3 billion in property damage.
