CaliToday (03/11/2025): Authorities issue the highest-level flood warnings for Da Nang and Hue, advising all travelers to postpone or cancel plans as a "dual disaster" unfolds.
HANOI – An urgent travel warning is in effect for all of Central Vietnam as the region faces a dangerous and compounding weather catastrophe. Authorities are battling active, severe flooding that has already submerged major cities, while simultaneously bracing for the imminent impact of Typhoon Kalmaegi, which is rapidly intensifying into a life-threatening super typhoon.
This is the most critical information for anyone with travel plans to the region. The situation is volatile, and widespread disruptions are guaranteed.
1. The Imminent Threat: Typhoon Kalmaegi (Storm No. 13)
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| A tree fell on a vehicle in the old city of Vinh. Photo: THANH CHAU |
Typhoon Kalmaegi (which will be designated Storm No. 13 in Vietnam) is escalating into a powerful and dangerous storm.
Current Strength: As of this afternoon (Nov. 3), the typhoon has already reached Category 12 intensity, with violent gusts up to Category 15 (Vietnamese scale), over the Philippines.
Rapid Intensification: The storm is forecast to enter the South China Sea (Biển Đông) within the next 24-48 hours.
Projected Path & Strength: It is projected to continue strengthening to a devastating Category 14, with gusts up to Category 17 (equivalent to a high-end Category 4 or Category 5 hurricane). The storm is forecasted to make a direct impact on Vietnam's Central Coast.
2. The Current Crisis: Active Catastrophic Flooding
This is not a future threat; it is an active crisis. Relentless, torrential rain (mưa lớn xối xả) overnight has caused a severe emergency.
Major Cities Inundated: The major tourist hubs of Hue, Da Nang, and Quang Nam (home to Hoi An) are experiencing widespread, severe re-flooding. Streets in Da Nang are submerged, and traffic is reported as "chaotic."
Highest-Level River Alarms: The region's major rivers—including the Huong and Bo rivers in Hue and the Vu Gia – Thu Bon rivers in Da Nang and Quang Nam—are rising "extremely fast." Authorities forecast that peak flood levels will surge past Alarm Level 3, the highest emergency designation, this afternoon and evening.
Compounding Disasters: The ground is completely saturated.
OFFICIAL TRAVEL RECOMMENDATION
All travelers with plans to visit Central Vietnam are strongly advised to take immediate action.
POSTPONE OR CANCEL ALL TRIPS: All non-essential travel to the central coast (provinces from Ha Tinh to Quang Nam) and the Central Highlands (Lam Dong) should be postponed or canceled immediately for your safety.
CHECK ITINERARIES: Travelers currently in Vietnam or en route must contact their airlines, tour operators, and railway services immediately.
EXPECT SEVERE DISRUPTIONS: Widespread and prolonged disruptions to all forms of transport (flights, trains, and buses) are not just possible, but expected. Key routes like the North-South railway and National Highway 1 are highly likely to be severed.