Vietnam Urgently Responds to Typhoon No. 1 and Post-Storm Flooding

Vietnam is bracing for the impact of Typhoon No. 1, named Maysak, which rapidly intensified from a tropical depression early on July 3. The storm's center was located in the northwestern waters of the Paracel Islands with winds of up to 8-9 on the Beaufort scale, gusting to 10. The typhoon is projected to move into the Tonkin Gulf and is expected to bring significant weather changes to northeastern Vietnam in the coming days.

Forecasters predict widespread heavy rainfall across northeastern Vietnam and Thanh Hoa province from the night of July 3 through July 5. Rainfall amounts are estimated between 100-200 mm, with some areas in the northeast potentially receiving 150-250 mm, and isolated locations exceeding 350 mm. This intense rainfall raises concerns about potential flooding and landslides.

In response, the National Steering Committee for Civil Defense has issued urgent directives to provincial and municipal authorities, as well as relevant ministries. These directives emphasize the need for proactive measures to ensure public safety and minimize damage. Key actions include conducting thorough checks of vessels and boats, informing captains, and guiding them to safe shelters. Coastal areas are also advised to implement measures to protect marine assets, aquaculture operations, and island infrastructure.

On land, authorities are tasked with reviewing and preparing for the evacuation of residents from homes deemed unsafe. Efforts will focus on reinforcing coastal and river dikes, managing water levels to prevent urban and industrial flooding, and ensuring the stability of communication and power grids. In mountainous regions, particular attention will be paid to identifying and relocating communities at risk of flash floods and landslides, while also ensuring safe transportation and securing mining operations and reservoirs.