Vietnam orders online learning readiness as super typhoon Ragasa nears

Minister Nguyen Kim Son issued a directive on Monday, outlining urgent measures to cope with Ragasa, which is moving west-northwest and forecast to enter the East Vietnam Sea on Monday night, becoming the ninth storm to affect the region this year.

The super typhoon is expected to reach the Gulf of Tonkin by early Thursday, with winds of up to 166 kph, before making landfall between Quang Ninh and Ha Tinh Provinces, the directive said, citing the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.

Ragasa’s intensity could rival the peak strength of typhoon Yagi, the third storm to hit Vietnam in 2024 and the most powerful to strike the East Vietnam Sea in the past 30 years.

Heavy rainfall from the storm is likely to bring a high risk of flash floods, landslides, and widespread flooding, particularly in mountainous areas with weak soil.

To minimize damage and ensure safety in the education sector, the minister instructed provincial and municipal education departments to closely monitor weather updates, maintain regular contact with local authorities and rescue forces, and respond promptly to emergencies.

Departments were told to prioritize the safety of students, teachers, and staff by preparing online learning plans and suspending in-person classes during severe weather.

Schools must inspect and reinforce facilities, particularly those in remote areas vulnerable to landslides or flooding, and relocate assets, equipment, and records to safe places. Where possible, schools should also serve as shelters for local residents during the typhoon.

After the storm, authorities must quickly assess and repair damage, disinfect classrooms to prevent disease, and ensure safe conditions for classes to resume.

Departments are required to provide continuous updates, report damage to local authorities, and submit timely reports to the ministry.