Storm Wutip triggers widespread flooding and landslides in central Vietnam
HANOI: Storm Wutip, has brought days of dangerous weather to central provinces in Vietnam, with torrential rains, powerful winds, widespread flooding and a high risk of landslides and flash floods, according to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.
As of 4am on June 13, the storm's centre was located over the southern waters of China's Hainan Island, with maximum sustained winds at level 10 (89–102km/h) and gusts reaching level 13.
The storm is expected to shift direction several times as it moves northward and then northeastward before weakening into a tropical depression over southern China by June 16.
Authorities have raised a level 3 disaster risk alert for the northwest area of the northern East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) and the northern Gulf of Tonkin.
Strong winds of level 6–8, gusting up to level 13, are forecast offshore from Quang Trị to Quang Nam provinces, with waves as high as six metres.
The Gulf of Tonkin is also experiencing rough seas, prompting warnings to all vessels in affected areas due to the threat of thunderstorms, strong winds and high waves.
Storm surges and high tides are expected to cause coastal flooding in localities from Hai Phong City to Nghe An Province, with water levels reaching up to 3.9m in some areas.
Localised flooding is likely in low-lying coastal and river estuary regions during high tide hours on June 13 and 14.
Central provinces from Quang Bình to Hue City recorded particularly heavy rainfall on June 13, ranging from 50mm to over 250mm.
Heavy rains submerge thousands of hectares of newly sown summer-autumn rice fields in Quang Binh province. — VNA/VNS
Some localities including Huế and Quảng Trị reported totals exceeding 600mm within 24 hours. Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Danang, Quang Ngai and Kon Tum also saw moderate to heavy rainfall, with some places experiencing more than 120mm.
The downpours have raised the risk of flash floods and landslides across eight provinces and cities. The most vulnerable areas include mountainous districts in Ha Tĩnh, Quang Bih, Quang Tri, Hue, Danang, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai and Kon Tum.
Authorities warn of sudden floods on small rivers and severe erosion on slopes.
In Quang Tri province, over 2,000 households were evacuated as floods submerged large areas and disrupted transportation.
Lao Bao town was among the worst-hit, with the Se Pon River overflowing into residential areas overnight.
In Hai Lang district, more than 1,400 households were affected, while Dakrong district saw nearly 100 households relocated from high-risk areas.
Widespread road flooding has cut off major transport routes, including National Highways 49C, 15D and several provincial roads, with water depths reaching up to four metres in some areas.
Landslides also blocked sections of the western Ho Chí Minh Trail and caused serious damage in resettlement zones in Huong Hoa and Dakrong districts.
In Kon Tum, storm-related damage included collapsed house walls, broken suspension bridges, road erosion and fallen trees. Several roads and access routes to rural communes were blocked by landslides and debris.
Local authorities have mobilised machinery and personnel to clear roads and reinforce damaged areas.
In Quang Binh's Minh Hoa District, two sisters went missing after being swept away by floodwaters while frog hunting at night. Search and rescue teams are continuing efforts under difficult weather conditions.
The storm has also caused agricultural losses, with more than 18,000ha of rice fields, 1,000ha of vegetables and nearly 100ha of aquaculture areas submerged.
Several irrigation structures, sports grounds and riverbanks have been damaged.
Provincial authorities have activated emergency protocols, including 24/7 response teams and the 'four-on-the-spot' approach. Fishing boats have safely anchored and no casualties among crews have been reported.
Weather forecasters warn that more rain is expected in the coming days in Kon Tum and central provinces, maintaining the risk of flooding and landslides.
Residents in high-risk areas are advised to follow official guidance and prepare for further disruptions. — Vietnam News/ANN
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