Typhoon Wipha, packing winds of up to 102 kph and carrying the potential for 50 centimeters of rain, was 60 kilometers off Haiphong City early Tuesday. Moving southwest at 15 kph, the storm could cross Vietnam's northern coast by Tuesday morning.
The national weather agency has mobilized nearly 350,000 troops to support evacuation and recovery efforts in flooded and landslide-prone areas. After landfall in Hung Yen and Ninh Binh provinces, Wipha is expected to weaken into a low-pressure system by Tuesday night.
So far, there have been no reports of casualties or significant damage. Residents of Cat Ba Island in Haiphong described moderate wind and rain, with many still able to move about their neighborhoods safely. 'We can go outdoors this morning as the wind is not too strong,' said a local witness.
Ports, Flights, and Rail Services Halt
Haiphong's busy ports, a critical link for manufacturing and exports, have paused operations, and dozens of flights have been canceled or rescheduled. Several airports and train lines in northern Vietnam have also suspended services as a precaution.
Preparing for Climate Extremes
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has ordered coastal provinces to emergency footing, warning of flooding and mudslides. Vietnam's long coastline along the South China Sea makes it vulnerable to tropical storms, with last year's Typhoon Yagi causing around 300 deaths and $3.3 billion in damage.
For travellers and local communities, keeping an eye on official updates, securing property, and having an evacuation plan can mean the difference between safety and crisis. Share your tips and stories below as communities across Vietnam unite to weather Wipha's impact.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
