A thunderstorm uprooted a three-leaf pine tree, approximately 70 cm in diameter and over 10 meters tall, in Xuan Huong Park. The tree fell onto a parked 5-seater car near the intersection of Tran Quoc Toan and Ho Tung Mau streets.

The damaged car crushed by the pine tree. Photo: Khanh Huong

About 20 meters away, a 30 cm diameter branch from another pine tree fell on a parked 7-seater car. Tuan, a resident living near the scene, said, "At 5 a.m., during heavy rain and strong winds, I heard a loud crash. I ran out and saw the car crushed under the tree. Fortunately, no one was inside." The wind also blew the corrugated iron roof off a nearby house, scattering debris into the park. Due to the early hour, the area was relatively deserted, preventing any injuries.

The storm also affected Lang Biang and Cam Ly wards in Da Lat, causing numerous trees to fall. Authorities are working to address the aftermath and assess the damage.

The 7-seater car hit by a fallen pine branch. Photo: Khanh Huong

Starting yesterday afternoon, storms hit several locations in the southern region and Lam Dong province, causing widespread damage, including fallen trees, damaged signs, and blown-off roofs.

Le Dinh Quyet, head of forecasting at the Southern Region and Central Highlands Hydrometeorological Station, attributed the storms to the circulation of Typhoon Wipha in the East Sea, which intensified the southwest monsoon. Wind gusts reached level 9 at times.

Heavy rain and strong winds, with the possibility of tornadoes and strong gusts, are expected to continue across the southern region today and tomorrow. Residents, especially those near large trees, signs, and outdoor structures, should take precautions.

Khanh Huong - Truong Ha