CaliToday (27/9/2025): Authorities in Vietnam's central coastal provinces have begun evacuating thousands of residents from vulnerable areas as Typhoon BUALOI, the 10th major storm to enter the South China Sea this year, has unexpectedly re-intensified and is now tracking on a complex and unpredictable path.
According to the latest afternoon update from Vietnam's National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, BUALOI has strengthened again to Level 13 on the Vietnamese scale, with violent gusts reaching up to Level 16. This corresponds to sustained wind speeds of 134-149 km/h (83-92 mph), with gusts exceeding 200 km/h (125 mph), making it equivalent to a powerful Category 2 hurricane.
As of 1:00 PM local time, the storm's eye was located approximately 250 kilometers east of the Paracel Islands.
Complex Trajectory and Imminent Threat
While the typhoon is maintaining its rapid forward speed, its trajectory has become a primary concern for forecasters. The storm is now showing a slight northward shift compared to earlier predictions, complicating response efforts.
The direct impact zone is now forecast for the central coastal provinces stretching from Hà Tĩnh to Thừa Thiên Huế. These provinces are now on the highest alert level.
Urgent Emergency Response Underway
In response to the escalating threat, provincial governments in Hà Tĩnh, Quảng Bình, and Quảng Trị have activated their emergency plans and have begun implementing mandatory evacuations. The focus is on moving people from:
Low-lying coastal areas susceptible to severe storm surge.
Flood-prone regions near rivers and estuaries.
Areas at high risk of landslides, particularly in the hilly western parts of the provinces.
A total ban on all maritime activities has been enforced, with all vessels ordered to remain in port.
The first impacts on the mainland are expected to be felt in the pre-dawn hours of Sunday, September 28th, with strong winds and heavy rains lashing the coast. The storm is predicted to bring torrential rainfall, with accumulations potentially exceeding 400mm (nearly 16 inches) in some areas, raising the immediate danger of widespread, catastrophic flooding and landslides. National disaster response teams have been mobilized and are on standby for deployment to the affected regions.
