South central Vietnam on high alert for flooding, landslides amid torrential rain forecast

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) reported that as of 11 a.m. Monday, the center of Storm Koto remained over the northwestern waters of the central East Sea (South China Sea), maintaining wind speeds of 61–74 kph.

The storm is expected to weaken into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours. Offshore areas from Gia Lai to northern Khanh Hoa provinces will see rough seas with strong winds and high waves.

Due to the combined influence of the storm's circulation and cold air, the eastern parts of provinces from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak and Khanh Hoa are expected to see heavy rainfall of 70–120 mm from Tuesday night through Wednesday, with some areas exceeding 180 mm. From Wednesday night to Friday, the heaviest rain will shift north.

Areas from Quang Tri to Da Nang and eastern Quang Ngai could receive 50–150 mm, with peak locations exceeding 250 mm. Meteorologists warn of the potential for intense short-burst rainfall exceeding 100 mm within three hours.

Despite the forecast rainfall being lower than the catastrophic event in mid-November, the danger remains high. Authorities emphasize that the soil is already saturated and prone to cracking or landslides, increasing the vulnerability of the entire region.

Meteorologists warn that the heavy rain may cause flooding in low-lying, urban, and industrial areas, flash floods in small rivers and streams, and landslides on steep slopes.

Heavy rainfall last month historically destructive flooding to the region between Nov. 16 and 22, particularly in Dak Lak, Khanh Hoa, Gia Lai, and Lam Dong. Many areas recorded over 1,000 mm of rain, with several rivers exceeding historical flood levels.

That disaster resulted in 98 deaths and 10 missing persons. Nearly 300,000 homes were inundated at the peak, with nearly 430 houses collapsing. The severe destruction to public infrastructure resulted in economic losses exceeding VND14.3 trillion (US$542 million).

 

 

South central Vietnam on high alert for flooding, landslides amid torrential rain forecast

recap of south-central Vietnam flooding