Damage and injuries reported as Storm Vamco makes landfall in central Vietnam November 15

Event

Storm Vamco made landfall in central Vietnam on Sunday, November 15, bringing winds of up to 90kph (55mph) and heavy rainfall. Buildings in coastal provinces were damaged and at least five people have been reported injured. Some 650,000 people in seven provinces had been evacuated by local authorities as Vamco approached. The storm left at least 67 people dead and displaced 1.7 million in the Philippines.

Residual disruption to transportation, business, and utilities is likely in the affected provinces over the near term.

Context

Tropical depressions, storms, and typhoons are common from June to October, posing a considerable threat to human populations and infrastructure. The impact varies depending on the intensity of the storm system, as well as the topographical orientation of the affected area(s) and the observance of existing disaster preparedness programs.

Advice

Those in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, including evacuation orders. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.