At 4 a.m., the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting reported Typhoon Tapah was located in the northwest area of the north East Sea, with maximum sustained winds near the center reaching 117 km/h (category 10-11), and gusts up to category 13. The typhoon was moving northwest at a speed of 20-25 km/h.

The typhoon is projected to make landfall in China today. By 4 p.m., it is anticipated to be over Guangdong province, China, with winds decreasing to category 8 and gusts to category 10. The typhoon will then veer northwest and gradually weaken.

Due to the typhoon's influence, the northwest region of the north East Sea will experience strong winds of category 7-8, increasing to category 9-11 near the typhoon's center, with gusts reaching category 13. Waves are expected to reach 4-6 meters. Vessels operating in these dangerous areas are likely to be affected.

Projected path and area of influence of Typhoon Tapah. Image: Disaster Monitoring System

Meteorological agencies in Japan and Hong Kong reported the typhoon was at its peak intensity before landfall in China, with winds reaching 110 km/h. However, the projected path over mainland China has shifted further north compared to yesterday, reducing the likelihood of heavy rain in northern Vietnam's mountainous areas.

Yesterday, Vietnam's meteorological agency predicted widespread rain across northern Vietnam starting in the afternoon and evening of 9/9. Mountainous and midland regions were expected to receive heavy rainfall, ranging from 70-150 mm, with some areas exceeding 300 mm. Certain locations could experience intense downpours, exceeding 100 mm in three hours.

Although not directly affected by the typhoon's circulation, areas on the outer fringes, such as the Gulf of Tonkin and the eastern coastal region of northern Vietnam, might experience thunderstorms, tornadoes, and strong gusts.

From 11/9, as the low-pressure system dissipates, rainfall in northern Vietnam is expected to decrease. From 12/9 to 14/9, the weather is forecast to be dry and cool.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has instructed provinces in northern Vietnam's mountainous and midland regions to closely monitor heavy rain warnings, flash floods, and landslides. They have also been advised to inspect high-risk areas and proactively evacuate residents. Authorities are to implement safety measures, preventing people and vehicles from crossing flooded underpasses and deep water areas. Additionally, they are to inspect critical infrastructure, ensure dyke safety, prepare drainage and rescue plans.

Seven typhoons have formed in the East Sea since the beginning of the year. Most recently, Typhoon No. 6, Nongfa, made landfall in Ha Tinh - north Quang Tri with weak intensity, causing minimal damage. Earlier, Typhoon No. 5, Kajiki, hit Thanh Hoa - Ha Tinh on 25/8, resulting in 9 deaths and missing persons, 77 injuries, damage to over 38,600 houses (with 510 collapsing), and total economic losses estimated at 2,900 billion VND.

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting predicts that from now until the end of the year, the East Sea may experience 5-7 more typhoons or tropical depressions, with 2-3 directly impacting the mainland, primarily from central Vietnam southward. Cold air is expected to arrive early, potentially leading to complex flood situations towards the end of the year.

Gia Chinh