Tropical depression near Philippines likely to strengthen into a storm, may enter East Vietnam Sea

According to Vietnam’s National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of 1:00 pm on Friday, the tropical depression’s center was located about 700 kilometers east of the central Philippines, with maximum sustained winds of 50-61 kph and gusts up to 75-88 kph.

Over the next 24 hours, the system is forecast to move westward at 20-25 kph and strengthen into a tropical storm.

By 1:00 pm on Saturday, its center could be over the eastern waters of the central Philippines with wind speeds reaching 62-74 kph, gusting to 89-102 kph.

During the following 48 to 72 hours, the storm is expected to move across the central Philippines and enter the East Vietnam Sea late on Sunday, making it the 12th storm to affect the maritime area this year.

After entering the maritime region, it will likely intensify further and move west-northwest at 20-25 kph.

Strong winds, rough seas expected

From Sunday, the eastern part of the northern East Vietnam Sea will possibly experience winds at 39-61 kph, with areas near the storm’s center reaching 62-74 kph, gusting to 89-102, and waves 2.5-4.5 meters high, along with rough seas.

Between Monday and Wednesday next week, the northern East Vietnam Sea, including Vietnam’s Hoang Sa (Paracel) Special Zone, may see winds at 75-117 kph, gusting to 150-166 kph.

The national weather agency warned all vessels operating in affected areas against dangerous conditions such as strong winds, thunderstorms, and high waves.

Heavy rain forecast for central Vietnam

From Friday afternoon to Sunday morning, the provinces from Quang Tri to Quang Ngai are expected to receive moderate to heavy rain of 70-150mm, with localized precipitation exceeding 300mm.

The provinces from Ha Tinh to Quang Ngai may experience rainfall of 30-60mm during Sunday.

The prolonged rainfall may cause flash floods, landslides, and urban inundation, especially in low-lying areas.