Vietnam is bracing for the impact of Typhoon Kajiki, forcing the evacuation of more than 586,000 residents from vulnerable coastal areas as the storm approaches. Packing winds of up to 166 km/h (103 mph), the typhoon is expected to intensify further before hitting the Vietnamese coast early Monday, according to meteorologists.
Central provinces such as Thanh Hoa, Quang Tri, Hue, and Da Nang are at the forefront of the evacuation orders. Interventions have included the cancellation of flights, with Vietnam Airlines grounding at least 22 routes due to safety concerns and maritime vessels being advised to remain anchored.
The storm is currently affecting nearby Hainan, China, where meteorological agencies predict up to 320 mm (12.6 in) of rain. Meanwhile, forecasts suggest the storm could regain strength as it crosses into Vietnam, with wind speeds potentially reaching 200 km/h and rainfall totals surging to between 300-400 mm.
Authorities have urged individuals within the forecasted path of Kajiki to stay indoors after 14:00 GMT on Sunday, emphasizing the perilous nature of the storm and the risks posed to vehicles and infrastructures like fishing boats and aquaculture facilities.
As the situation unfolds, memories linger of Typhoon Yagi, which struck in September of the previous year and resulted in significant loss of life, claiming over 300 lives in Vietnam alone. With soldiers deployed to assist in emergency responses, the government is striving to mitigate potential devastation from the approaching storm.
