02 Nov 2017 | 05:08 PM UTC
Southeast Asia: Tropical Storm Damrey to strike November 2-5
Tropical Storm Damrey (Ramil) to strike region November 2-5; heavy rains forecast in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand
Event
As of 22:00 (local time) on Thursday, November 2, Tropical Storm Damrey (also known as Ramil) was located 560 km (350 mi) west-southwest of Manila, Philippines, with maximum sustained winds of 75 km/h (47 mph) and moving westward at a speed of 16 km/h (10 mph). Forecasts say the storm may strengthen into a typhoon before reaching Vietnam on Friday, November 3. The storm is expected to bring 150-300 mm (6-12 in) of rain in Vietnam along with strong winds on the coast from Tuy Hòa south to Vung Tàu. Vietnamese authorities have issued flood and landslide warnings for affected areas, particularly in Phú Yên, Quang Nam, and Khánh Hoà provinces.
By Saturday, November 4, the storm is forecast to weaken before striking Southern Laos and Cambodia. However, the region is still expected to receive rainfall of 75-150 mm (3-6 in) with risk of flooding and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas.
Damrey is forecast to reach eastern Thailand on Sunday, November 5, as a tropical depression with moderate winds and rain. In addition, a separate storm is forecast to produce heavy rain on Thursday, November 2, and Friday, November 3, in Thailand’s southern provinces, leading to localized flooding and storm surges in coastal areas.
Context
Tropical Storm Damrey (Ramil) passed over parts of the Philippines on November 1 and 2 as a tropical depression, producing over 300 mm (12 in) of rain and causing heavy flooding and landslides in isolated villages. At least two people were reported missing and five people reported injured during the storm.
Advice
Individuals present in Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia are advised to keep abreast of weather alerts, confirm travel reservations, and adhere to all advice issued by the local authorities.
In the event of flooding, 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 having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and foodstuffs discarded.
