According to the Southern Regional Hydrometeorological Center on 29/8, a tropical depression southeast of the Paracel Islands is likely to strengthen into a typhoon. This, combined with southwesterly winds, is expected to bring heavy rainfall to southern Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City from 30/8 to 2/9.

Residents ride motorbikes through flooded areas after heavy rain in Thu Duc Market in August. Photo: Thanh Tung

Residents ride motorbikes through flooded areas after heavy rain in Thu Duc Market in August. Photo: Thanh Tung

The forecast predicts moderate to heavy rain, with total rainfall between 100 and 140 mm. The rain is also expected to be accompanied by thunderstorms. Residents should be prepared for localized flooding in low-lying areas and take precautions against potential incidents caused by wind and rain during outdoor activities, including swimming.

The rainy season in the Central Highlands and Southern Vietnam is expected to continue from now until early October. September is projected to have the highest total rainfall.

Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Vietnam have recently experienced several periods of heavy rain causing widespread flooding. On 21/8, heavy downpours in Bien Hoa City and Long Thanh District (Dong Nai Province) caused water to enter homes, damaging property and cars. Earlier, in early August, heavy rain lasting over 30 minutes resulted in flooding of over one meter on many roads in Ho Chi Minh City, causing traffic chaos.

Dinh Van