According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of 7:00 a.m. this morning, the tropical depression was centered about 220 km east of the Hoang Sa archipelago. The maximum sustained winds near the center were measured at level 7 (50-61 km/h), with gusts reaching level 9. The system is moving westward at approximately 15 km/h.
Storm No. 4 is Imminent
Over the next 24 hours, the tropical depression is expected to strengthen into Storm No. 4, with winds intensifying to level 8 (62-74 km/h), and gusts reaching level 10. By 7:00 a.m. on September 19, the storm will be about 210 km east-southeast of Quang Tri and 120 km east of Da Nang.
The storm is projected to make landfall in the Quang Binh – Quang Tri region, then weaken back into a tropical depression as it moves inland.
Tropical Depression to Weaken Over Land
By 7:00 a.m. on September 20, the weakened system will be positioned near the Vietnam-Laos border, with winds reduced to level 6 (39-49 km/h) and gusts at level 8. In the following 48 to 72 hours, the tropical depression will continue moving west-northwest at a speed of 10-15 km/h, eventually weakening into a low-pressure system.
Marine and Coastal Areas at Risk
Due to the influence of this storm, strong winds (level 6-7) and high waves (2-4 meters) are expected across the northern East Sea, including the Hoang Sa archipelago, and coastal waters from Nghe An to Quang Ngai, which includes the island districts of Ly Son, Cu Lao Cham, Con Co, and Hon Ngu. Near the storm’s center, winds could reach level 8 with gusts up to level 10, generating waves as high as 5 meters.
Marine vessels in these areas are at risk of encountering storms, strong winds, and large waves. Coastal provinces from Quang Binh to Quang Nam should prepare for the possibility of high tides combined with strong waves, which could lead to coastal erosion, dike breaches, and flooding in low-lying areas.
Preparing for the Storm’s Impact
From the early morning of September 19, mainland coastal areas from Ha Tinh to Quang Ngai will experience strengthening winds, reaching level 6-7. Near the storm’s center, winds may reach level 8 with gusts up to level 10. Inland areas may also experience gusts of level 6-7.
Residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
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Source: Vietnam Insider