Are Vietnam and Laos Ready for Typhoon Wipha's Impact?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Typhoon Wipha is approaching Vietnam and Laos, prompting safety measures.
- Evacuations are underway in high-risk areas to protect residents.
- Warnings of flash floods and landslides have been issued in Laos.
- Authorities are enforcing travel bans and flight cancellations.
- Residents are advised to monitor official forecasts closely.
Vientiane/ Hanoi, July 21 (NationPress) Vietnam and Laos are preparing for a significant weather event on Monday, as Typhoon Wipha approaches with a formidable combination of torrential downpours, powerful winds, and intense thunderstorms expected to affect the region.
In Laos, the meteorological agency has issued advisories regarding the heightened risk of flash floods and landslides, as Typhoon Wipha, the sixth typhoon this year, is anticipated to deliver substantial rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms nationwide.
As Typhoon Wipha diminishes into a tropical storm near Vietnam from Monday to Tuesday, it is predicted to impact northern and central Laos, resulting in light to moderate thunderstorms across most areas, along with heavy rain and strong gusts in certain central and southern regions, according to a statement from the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology within the Lao Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
Residents in vulnerable low-lying regions and along riverbanks are urged to stay vigilant and prepare for several days of relentless heavy rain, which could lead to landslides, flash floods, and destruction to life and property. All citizens are advised to closely follow official forecasts and warnings.
Similarly, Vietnam's northern and central provinces have initiated precautionary measures to reduce the potential effects of Typhoon Wipha, which is expected to make landfall on Monday evening, as reported by Xinhua, citing the Vietnam News Agency.
Authorities in at-risk areas have begun evacuating individuals from high-hazard zones, including river mouths, coastal regions, riverbanks, and areas susceptible to landslides.
Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has directed local governments to enforce bans on sea travel and suspend operations of fishing, cargo, and tourist vessels depending on local conditions.
He stressed that no individuals should remain on boats when the typhoon reaches land.
National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines has canceled multiple domestic flights to the northern port city of Hai Phong on Monday.
The eastern Chinese province of Fujian also activated a Level-IV flood control emergency response at 8 a.m. Monday, as Typhoon Wipha approaches, according to the provincial flood control and drought relief headquarters.