Vietnam: Adverse weather forecast across the central and southern regions through at least Nov. 25

Event

Thunderstorms, strong winds, large waves, landslides, and flooding are forecast across southern and central Vietnam through at least Nov. 25. The Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has warned of moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms across the affected area through at least Nov. 18, with rainfall of 15-35 cm (6-14 inches) likely over Da Nang, Thua Thien Hue, Quang Nam, and Quang Ngai provinces. Through at least Nov. 17, rainfall of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) is forecast over Binh Dinh, Phu Yen, and Khanh Hoa provinces. From Nov. 17 to Nov. 18, rainfall of 5-15 cm (2 to 6 inches) is forecast over Ha Tinh, Nam Nghe An, Quang Binh, and Quang Tri provinces. Showers and thunderstorms are also forecast over the Central Highlands, the South, and Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan provinces through at least November 18.

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. Forecast models indicate that the heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are likely to continue through at least Nov. 25.

Reports indicate that the Kon River in Binh Dinh province has overflowed, flooding hundreds of houses along its banks. In Phu My District, at least 2,300 houses have been flooded and one fatality has been reported due to floods. Authorities have evacuated at least 94 households due to possible flooding and landslides.

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 caused by recent rainfall have blocked a number of routes in the affected area in recent days, including sections of National Highway 1A and 1D as well as provincial road DT633 in Binh Dinh province. Provincial roads DT639, DT 640, and DT 636 in the province are also flooded. In Keo Te Village, Nhi Son Commune, Thanh Hoa Province, a landslide has blocked a portion of National Highway 15C. Authorities have diverted traffic towards National Highway 16.

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)