A powerful typhoon, currently classified as Category 12-13 with gusts reaching Category 16, is intensifying and moving at a reduced pace of approximately 15 km/h towards Vietnam's coast. This slow movement allows the storm to accumulate more energy, increasing its potential for further strengthening and posing a significant threat to coastal regions.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated across a broad swathe of the country, impacting the northern plains, southern Phu Tho, and extending from Thanh Hoa to Thua Thien Hue. Certain areas, particularly Thanh Hoa and Hue, could experience rainfall exceeding 200mm within a three-hour span, raising serious concerns about the potential for rapid and severe flooding. Coastal regions from Quang Ninh to Ninh Binh are already facing strong winds, with speeds recorded at level 6-7 and gusts up to level 8. Inland areas from Thanh Hoa to Quang Tri are bracing for winds of level 7-9, with locations closer to the typhoon's eye expected to endure winds of level 10-12 and gusts up to level 14-15.
Vietnam has been enhancing its weather forecasting capabilities, including the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and collaborations with international partners like Finland, to improve the accuracy of predictions for typhoons and heavy rainfall. These advancements aim to provide earlier warnings and mitigate the impact of extreme weather events. However, forecasting the precise track and intensity of tropical cyclones, especially their rainfall amounts, remains a significant challenge, as noted by the Việt Nam Meteorology and Hydrological Administration.
The typhoon is projected to make landfall between Thanh Hoa and northern Quang Tri, a region that has historically experienced significant impacts from tropical storms, such as Typhoon Xangsane in 2006, which caused extensive damage and numerous fatalities in Central Vietnam. Residents in the path of this current storm are strongly advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and to implement all necessary safety precautions to minimize risks. The government has also been actively coordinating preparedness efforts, including evacuation plans and securing infrastructure, to safeguard lives and property.