Vietnam: Remnants of Typhoon Kirogi to bring heavy rain, flooding Nov. 19

Event

Typhoon Kirogi weakened to a tropical depression early on Sunday, November 19, hours before the system is forecast to strike central and southern Vietnam. As of early Sunday, the tropical depression packed maximum sustained winds of 40-50 km/h (25-30 mph).

Heavy rain, localized flooding, and consequent landslides are expected in central and southern Vietnam on Sunday, from Quang Nam to Binh Thuan provinces and in the Central Highlands region, after the depression makes landfall on Sunday afternoon (local time) in Ninh Thuan province. Consequent transportation disruptions are expected in the affected areas in the coming days.

Context

Storm Haikui struck Vietnam on November 14, shortly after Typhoon Damrey killed at least 106 people after making landfall on November 4. In October, heavy rains and subsequent floods and landslides killed over 80 people in Vietnam's northern provinces of Yen Bai and Hoa Binh. In September, Typhoon Doksuri struck Ha Tinh and Quang Binh provinces, killing 17 people and causing over USD 700 million in damages.

Vietnam's rainy season overlaps with much of the Southeast Asia typhoon season, lasting from around May to October, and regularly results in flooding in the country's north.

Advice

Individuals present in Vietnam are advised to keep abreast of weather forecasts, confirm travel reservations, and adhere to all advice issued by the local authorities.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult. In addition, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, wear boots and try to avoid any contact with the water. All items that have come into contact with floodwater should be washed and disinfected and foodstuffs discarded.