Brian Jeffrey
Typhoon Soulik Approaches Vietnam
As of 4 a.m. on September 19, Typhoon Soulik has been reported approximately 217 km from Da Nang and 262 km from Quang Tri, escalating to Category 8 with sustained winds of 62-74 km/h, featuring gusts reaching Category 10 velocities.
The storm is predicted to cause widespread disruption. It will merge with the robust southwest monsoon in a tropical convergence zone, affecting the Central and Central Highlands as well as Southern regions, leading to heavy rain, thunderstorms, and potent wind gusts.
According to the National Meteorological Center, the storm intensified overnight from a tropical depression located northeast of the Hoang Sa (Paracel) Islands. By this morning, it was moving westward at about 20 km/h.
In maritime zones to the west of the northern East Sea, including the Hoang Sa Archipelago, winds could range from 39 to 61 km/h, with substantial waves between 2 and 4 meters high. Near the typhoon’s center, wind gusts can hit up to 102 km/h, producing wave heights of up to 5 meters, creating hazardous sea conditions.
The impact of the southwest monsoon will also affect the waters from Binh Dinh to Ca Mau, inciting winds of 39-61 km/h, with rough waves measuring 3-5 meters.
Residents and officials in coastal provinces from Quang Binh to Quang Nam should prepare for potential storm surges between 0.3-0.5 meters. These surges, together with high tides, might contribute to coastal erosion and flooding in vulnerable areas. Vessels in the region are urged to stay vigilant against fierce thunderstorms and high seas.
Inland areas from Ha Tinh to Quang Nam will likely experience wind speeds between 62-74 km/h, with gusts peaking around 102 km/h. Inland winds may reach strengths categorized as Category 7.
Heavy thunderstorms ahead of the cyclone could cause damage such as fallen trees, blown-off roofs, and uprooted billboards. Significant rainfall is expected from September 19 to 20 in the North and Central regions, with totals between 100-300mm and some places potentially exceeding 500mm. Quang Tri and Da Nang may see intense downpours exceeding 150mm in just six hours.
Furthermore, the Central Highlands and southern Vietnam are forecasted to experience heavy rains, varying from 20-40mm, with isolated regions seeing over 70mm.
The anticipated rainfall could overwhelm urban drainage systems, leading to localized flooding, especially in densely populated locales.
Ly Dao
