Vietnam: Vietnam Airlines cancels domestic flights August 2 /update 1

Event

Vietnam Airlines announced on the morning (local time) of Friday, August 2, that at least five domestic flights in northern Vietnam have been canceled as Typhoon Wipha continues to move towards the region. Flights between Hai Phong and Ho Chi Minh City were canceled and Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) will be closed from 12:00 on Friday until 12:00 on Saturday, August 3. Service between Da Nang and Hai Phong has also been suspended as well as between Van Don International Airport (VDO) in Quảng Ninh to Ho Chi Minh City. Further domestic and international flight disruptions are possible in northern Vietnam in the coming days.

The National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has issued severe weather warnings for thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and flooding in northern and central Vietnam from Thursday, August 1, through Sunday, August 4. The Centre is forecasting rainfall between 100-300 mm (4-12 in) and issued flood warnings for low-lying and urban areas in several provinces, including Quảng Ninh, Lạng Sơn, Bắc Kạn, Cao Bang, Ha Giang, Yên Bái, Lao Cai, Hoa Binh, Sơn La, Lai Châu, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An. They have also warned of landslides, particularly in mountainous regions.

Local media outlets report that tens of thousands of boats and ships have been warned to seek refuge during the storm. Disruptions to transportation services, including trains and buses, are also likely in the coming days. 

Advice

Individuals in areas forecast to be affected by Wipha are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), ensure adequate food, water, battery, and medical supplies, and anticipate significant rainfall, flooding, strong winds, and associated power, telecommunications, and transportation disruptions.

Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters and remember that floodwater may contain wastewater and chemical products.