Tropical depression drifts across central Vietnam, sparking floods and landslides

A tropical depression that struck central Vietnam on Sunday evening is now advancing west-northwest at roughly 10 km per hour, according to one outlet Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting. The storm is affecting Ha Tinh, Quang Tri and surrounding provinces, with sustained winds of 39-74 km/h and sea waves reaching four metres, endangering fishing boats, cargo ships and coastal structures. Forecasts call for moderate to heavy rain of 30-60 mm, potentially exceeding 100 mm in some locations, over a wide swath that includes Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Hue, Da Nang and northern midland provinces.

The prolonged downpour has already caused rapid river rises, bridge washouts and landslides that blocked major highways such as National Highway 15D, prompting the evacuation of about 107 households (331 people) and the deployment of police, military and border guard personnel to secure flooded areas. Officials warn of a very high risk of flash floods and landslides in mountainous zones and widespread inundation in low-lying districts through the morning of September 16.