Typhoon Bualoi has prompted extensive evacuations across Vietnam as authorities respond to the imminent threat posed by the storm. With winds reaching up to 133 kph, the typhoon is expected to make landfall in central Vietnam early on March 15, 2024, following a devastating impact in the Philippines that resulted in at least 10 deaths and significant flooding.
The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting indicated that Bualoi is likely to strike between the Quang Tri and Nghe An provinces. The storm is moving at nearly twice the average speed for typhoons, increasing the urgency of preparations. Authorities predict that northern and central provinces may experience up to 600 mm of rainfall, leading to elevated river levels and heightened risks of flooding and landslides.
In anticipation of the storm’s impact, the central province of Ha Tinh has begun evacuating over 15,000 people. Additionally, thousands of troops are on standby to assist in emergency responses. Residents in the coastal city of Vinh, situated close to Bualoi’s projected landfall, are taking precautions by securing their homes, tying down boats, and stacking sandbags on rooftops.
“I have not felt this terrified because of storms in over 20 years living here,” said local resident Bui Thi Tuyet, reflecting the anxiety of many as they brace for the storm.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam announced the suspension of operations at four coastal airports, including Da Nang International Airport, starting Sunday. Heavy rains have already resulted in flooding in Hue and Quang Tri, complicating matters further.
With a long coastline along the South China Sea, Vietnam is particularly vulnerable to typhoons, many of which have proven deadly. Last year, Typhoon Yagi caused approximately $3.3 billion in property damage and claimed around 300 lives.
Preparations for Bualoi are extensive, with authorities in Da Nang planning to relocate more than 210,000 people and over 32,000 coastal residents in Hue preparing to move to safer areas. Since Saturday night, heavy rains have inundated central provinces, leading to flooded streets and structural damage in Hue, where at least one person has been reported missing after being swept away by floodwaters.
In neighboring Quang Tri province, the situation has escalated as a fishing boat sank, and another became stranded while seeking shelter.
The region remains on high alert as the aftermath of Super Typhoon Ragasa, which struck the northern Philippines and Taiwan, continues to affect recovery efforts. With nearly 28 fatalities linked to Ragasa, the pressure on local authorities is mounting.
Forecasters have warned of continued heavy rainfall in the coming days, which may exacerbate the risks of flooding and landslides in northern and central provinces. Experts indicate that climate change is contributing to the increasing intensity of storms, as warmer oceans fuel more severe weather patterns across East Asia.
As Vietnam prepares for the impact of Typhoon Bualoi, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents and minimizing potential damage from this formidable storm.
