Friday, July 18, 2025

Typhoon Wipha Forms East of the Philippines, Forecast to Enter South China Sea with Destructive Force

Typhoon Wipha Forms East of the Philippines


MANILA/HANOI – A new tropical cyclone, named Typhoon Wipha, has formed in the waters east of the Philippines this morning and is on a direct course toward the South China Sea (which Vietnam refers to as the East Sea). Forecasts indicate the storm will enter the major maritime thoroughfare by tomorrow, with meteorologists warning it could rapidly intensify and pose a significant threat to mainland Vietnam in the coming days.


According to the latest meteorological reports, Typhoon Wipha was identified in the early hours of Friday. It is currently tracking westward and is expected to cross into the South China Sea by Saturday.


Authorities are issuing serious warnings as the storm is projected to strengthen considerably over the warm ocean waters. Projections from the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting of Vietnam indicate that Wipha could reach a sustained wind speed equivalent to Level 12 on the Vietnamese scale. This corresponds to wind speeds of 118-133 km/h (73-83 mph), which is comparable to a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Scale.


Furthermore, powerful gusts are predicted to reach Level 15, which translates to violent bursts of wind up to 167-183 km/h (104-114 mph). This level of intensity can cause widespread and significant damage to infrastructure, including downing trees and power lines, and poses a high risk to coastal communities.


Vietnamese disaster management agencies are on high alert. While the exact path and point of landfall are still being monitored, the storm's trajectory suggests a high probability of it directly impacting Vietnam's coastline. Fishermen and vessels have been alerted to seek shelter, and coastal provinces are being instructed to prepare for potential evacuations and to secure homes and infrastructure.


The public is advised to stay updated with the latest official storm bulletins and to follow all safety instructions issued by local authorities as Typhoon Wipha approaches. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, storm surges, and the risk of flash floods and landslides to the areas in its path.

RELATED POSTS