Storm Trami Pummels Central Vietnam After Devastating Philippines
Hanoi, Vietnam - Storm Trami slammed into central Vietnam on Sunday, threatening heavy rains and dangerous floods after leaving a trail of destruction in the Philippines.
The Southeast Asian nation, with its extensive coastline, is highly susceptible to storms and floods, which often result in significant casualties and property damage.
The national weather forecast agency predicts rainfall in several parts of provinces from Quang Binh to Quang Nam could reach 60 cm (23.6 inches) on Sunday and Monday. The agency warns of high flood risks in urban areas from Ha Tinh to Binh Dinh provinces. Heavy rains are also expected to hit the Central Highlands, Vietnam's key coffee-growing region.
Trami's impact follows its devastating sweep across the Philippines' main Luzon island, leaving large areas submerged under floodwaters. Rescue and relief operations remain difficult as Manila braces for the impact of incoming storm Kong-rey.
The storm hit the Philippines on Thursday, causing floods and landslides that have left at least 90 people dead as of Sunday. The disaster agency is still validating many of these reported deaths to confirm the cause of death was directly related to the storm.
Relief efforts are hampered by extensive flooding, with many areas accessible only by boats. Food, water, hygiene, and medical supplies are sufficient, according to the head of the Office of Civil Defense.
Trami, with wind speeds of up to 88 kph (54.7 mph), made landfall in Hue and Danang. Maximum wind speeds have since weakened to 74 kph (46 mph).
The storm has forced four airports in central Vietnam to temporarily close, including the international airport in Danang City, which will be closed from 6:00 a.m. on Sunday until 4:00 a.m. on Monday.
State media reports said Trami's strong winds downed trees and advertisement boards in Danang.
Last month, typhoon Yagi and the floods it triggered killed more than 300 people and caused property damage of more than $3.3 billion in northern Vietnam.