Da Nang suspends tourism on peninsula, Quang Binh closes airport as storm approaches

By Hoang Phong September 18, 2024 | 07:13 pm PT

The check-in area at Dong Hoi Airport in Quang Binh Province. Photo by VnExpress/Hoang Tao

Authorities in Da Nang have suspended tourism activities on Son Tra Peninsula, while Quang Binh Province will temporarily close its airport as a tropical storm is expected to hit central Vietnam on Thursday afternoon.

Swimming and entertainment activities on Son Tra peninsula were banned starting Wednesday, with the suspension remaining in effect until further notice to ensure tourist safety, according to an announcement made by the peninsula's management board on its official Facebook page.

Located 10 km northeast of Da Nang center, the peninsula is home to the world's largest population of the endangered red-shanked douc langur. It also hosts luxury resorts and Buddhist sites such as the Linh Ung Pagoda, which overlooks the sea.

Since Tuesday, heavy rains have lashed many parts of Da Nang, with rainfall reaching up to 150 mm.

The tropical depression intensified into a storm early Thursday morning, bringing winds of up to 74 kph. It is expected to make landfall between the Quang Binh and Quang Tri provinces later in the day.

Quang Binh, home to the UNESCO world heritage site Phong Nha-Ke Bang national park and the world's largest cave Son Doong, has announced the closure of Dong Hoi Airport from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday.

Boat services to Ly Son Island, a popular tourist destination in Quang Ngai Province, were also suspended.