Vietnam: Tropical Storm Podul to hit central regions August 29-30 /update 1

Event

Tropical Storm Podul is forecast to bring 15-25 cm (6-10 in) of rain and wind gusts of 80-95 kph (50-60 mph) to the north-central coastal areas of Vietnam between Thursday, August 29 and Friday, August 30. Landfall is expected between the cities of Hà Tĩnh (Hà Tĩnh province) and Da Nang. Associated flooding, mudslides, and damage are likely. The storm is expected to weaken to a tropical depression by Friday evening (local time) as it moves eastward toward Thailand and Laos. Authorities are on stand-by to evacuate thousands of people from low-lying coastal areas.

As of Thursday evening, Podul is located at approximately 17.8°N 108.3°E (map here), with a westward track over the South China Sea, east of Quảng Bình province.

Transportation and business disruptions, as well as power outages, are anticipated in areas forecast to be affected by Podul over the coming days.

Context

Tropical cyclones and typhoons are common in the western Pacific and the South China Sea from June through November.

Advice

Individuals in areas forecast to be affected by the storm are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.