27 Oct 2024 | 08:38 AM UTC
Vietnam: Tropical Storm Trami tracking southwestward inland following landfall over central Vietnam Oct. 27 /update 9
TS Trami tracking southwestward over central Vietnam Oct. 27. Severe weather forecast to continue over the region through at least Oct. 29.
Tropical Storm Trami is tracking southwestward inland over central Vietnam Oct. 27 having made landfall over southern Thua Thien Hue Province close to Da Nang at around 10:00 ICT. As of 16:00, the system's center of circulation was approximately 54 km (34 miles) west-northwest of Da Nang.
Forecast models indicate that the system will weaken into a tropical depression as it tracks southwestward into Quang Nam Province late Oct. 27 before turning eastward early Oct. 28. The system is expected to remain a depression as it turns to track northeastward and passes back over Da Nang and back out into the South China Sea Oct. 28-29. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and significant changes could occur in the coming days.
As of Oct. 27, Vietnam's National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has issued a warning for the storm, advising of strong winds and heavy rainfall from Quang Binh to Quang Nam provinces, as well as a possible storm surge of 04.-0.6 meters (1.3-2 feet) along the coast. Rainfall totals of 20-40 cm (8-16 inches) with localized heavier amounts over 60 cm (23 inches) are possible in the affected area Oct. 27-28.
Residents in Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang provinces have been urged to stay at home Oct. 27 during the passing of the storm. Authorities in Quang Binh and Quang Nam provinces have banned all coastal activities until the storm passes. Quang Tri Province has called for the return of all fishing vessels. Authorities have suspended operations at Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) and Dong Hoi Airport (VDH) Oct. 27 as well as Da Nang International Airport (DAD) and Chu Lai Airport (VCL) Oct. 27-early Oct. 28.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. If weather conditions prove hazardous, localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible.
Inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary port closures are also possible. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast typhoon or tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
