Brian Jeffrey
The National Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting issued a bulletin on September 5, stating that Typhoon Yagi, now a Category 5 storm, is strengthening over the East Sea. At 1 p.m., the storm was about 460 kilometers east of China’s Hainan Island, with sustained winds of 184-201 km/h and gusts over 220 km/h.
Yagi is slowly moving west at 10 km/h, and forecasts indicate a landfall in northern Vietnam by midday on September 7, bringing destructive winds and heavy rain.
Currently, the northern part of the East Sea is experiencing winds of 100-150 km/h, with areas near the storm’s center facing winds of 160-200 km/h. Waves are high at 7 to 12 meters.
By September 6, winds of 50-60 km/h are expected in the eastern Gulf of Tonkin, increasing to 90-140 km/h by late evening. Offshore islands like Bach Long Vy and Co To will face waves up to 8 meters.
Coastal areas from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa will start feeling the storm’s impact early on September 7, with winds intensifying inland. Winds of 50-80 km/h are expected inland, with gusts over 100 km/h.
The storm surge may raise sea levels by 2-4 meters along the coast, with waves up to 5 meters, posing risks to vessels and infrastructure.
From September 6 to 9, significant rainfall between 100-350 mm, and over 500 mm in localized areas, is expected in northern Vietnam and parts of the central region, leading to flooding and landslides.
Yagi’s effects will stretch beyond the immediate landfall zone, impacting the entire northern and central regions of Vietnam. High winds and rainfall will pose dangers before the storm makes landfall.
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha will lead an emergency meeting with the National Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control to coordinate preparations for Yagi’s arrival and implement safety measures.
Residents in high-risk areas are advised to prepare for severe weather, follow evacuation orders, and prioritize protecting lives and property.
