Thursday, August 28, 2025

Central Vietnam on High Alert as Tropical Depression Expected to Intensify into Storm No. 6

CaliToday (29/8/2025): National weather authorities have issued urgent warnings for Vietnam's central coastal region as a tropical depression currently active in the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) is rapidly tracking west and is expected to strengthen into a typhoon, officially named Storm No. 6.



Provinces from Thanh Hoa to Da Nang are bracing for impact, with forecasts predicting the onset of torrential rains and strong winds beginning Friday afternoon and intensifying through the night. Local disaster response committees have been activated, and urgent preparations are underway to mitigate potential damage.

Meteorological Forecast and Projected Impact

According to Vietnam's National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, the tropical depression is moving quickly and is currently on a direct path toward the central coast. Favorable conditions at sea, including warm surface temperatures, are likely to fuel its intensification into a full-blown tropical storm within the next 12 to 24 hours.

The primary threat from Storm No. 6 is expected to be widespread heavy rainfall. The mountainous terrain of the Central Region makes it highly susceptible to secondary effects such as flash floods and landslides, which pose a significant danger to communities in these areas. Coastal regions are also preparing for strong winds and rough seas.

This storm is designated "No. 6" as it is the sixth tropical storm system to enter the East Sea in the 2025 typhoon season.

Authorities and Communities Rush to Prepare

In response to the warnings, provincial authorities along the central coast have begun implementing their emergency protocols. Key preparations include:

  • Maritime Safety: A ban has been issued on all fishing vessels and maritime transport leaving port. Authorities are using all available communication channels to recall thousands of boats already at sea, urging them to find safe harbor immediately.

  • Evacuation Readiness: Evacuation plans are being prepared for residents in low-lying coastal areas, regions prone to riverbank erosion, and mountainous communities at high risk of landslides.

  • Infrastructure Reinforcement: Local disaster management teams are inspecting dykes, reservoirs, and critical infrastructure. Residents are being advised to secure their homes by reinforcing roofs, trimming large tree branches, and preparing emergency supplies.

A Vulnerable Region

Vietnam's long central coastline is one of the most storm-vulnerable regions in the country. Its geography, a narrow strip of flat land bordered by the sea and the Annamite Mountain Range, makes it uniquely exposed to the dual threats of coastal storm surges and inland flooding. The region has historically borne the brunt of some of the most destructive typhoons to make landfall in Vietnam.

As the storm system continues its approach, the next 24 hours will be critical. All eyes are on the central provinces as residents and authorities brace for the impact of what is forecast to be a significant and dangerous weather event.