Vietnam: Adverse weather forecast across the central and southern regions through at least Nov. 14 /update 1

Event

Thunderstorms, strong winds, large waves, landslides, and flooding are forecast across southern and central Vietnam through at least Nov. 14. The Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has warned of moderate to very heavy rain across the affected area through at least Nov. 14, with rainfall of 10-25 cm (4-10 inches) likely over Da Nang, Khanh Hoa, Thua Thien Hue, and northern Quang Nam provinces and 30-60 cm (12-24 inches) of rainfall likely from southern Quang Nam Province to Phu Yen Province. Thunderstorms with moderate to heavy rain are likely over the Central Highlands, Mekong River Delta, and Southeast regions as well as across Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan provinces through at least Nov. 14.

Thunderstorms, bringing tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong winds are also possible across the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Floods and landslides have blocked multiple roads across the affected area, especially in Central Vietnam, including provincial road 628 in Quang Ngai Province from Minh Long District to Long Mon Commune. Flooding has also affected Highway 40B at Truong River and the DH3 road to Tra Nu Commune near Suoi Roai Bridge in Quang Nam Province.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (Vietnamese)