HANOI: Vietnam is preparing for Typhoon Bualoi, the 10th storm to strike the country this year, by evacuating more than 250,000 residents from vulnerable coastal regions.
The storm, currently generating winds of up to 130 kilometers per hour (80 mph), is expected to make landfall at 7:00 pm (1200 GMT) on Sunday, according to Vietnam’s meteorological agency.
Danang, central Vietnam’s largest city, will relocate more than 210,000 residents, while about 32,000 people from coastal areas of Hue will also be moved to safer shelters.
Steel-Producing Ha Tinh on High Alert
Authorities confirmed that over 15,000 residents from Ha Tinh — a key steel production hub — are being evacuated to schools and hospitals converted into emergency shelters.
Around 117,000 military personnel have been deployed to assist with rescue and safety measures. Four airports in the region have been closed, and all fishing boats in the storm’s path have been recalled to port.
Nguyen Cuong, a Ha Tinh resident, told AFP:
“I feel somewhat nervous yet still optimistic that all will be okay in the end. Everyone was unharmed after the latest typhoon Kajiki. I hope this one will be equally or less intense.”
Warnings of Severe Natural Disasters
The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting stated that Typhoon Bualoi may reach wind speeds of 133 kph as it makes landfall Sunday evening.
“This is a rapidly advancing storm with high intensity and a large affected area, capable of triggering multiple types of disasters — high winds, heavy rain, flooding, landslides, and coastal flooding,” said center director Mai Van Khiem.
Climate experts continue to warn that global warming is intensifying storm activity in Southeast Asia.
Vietnam’s Rising Climate Challenges
Vietnam has faced significant losses from recent natural disasters. In the first seven months of 2025 alone, more than 100 people were reported dead or missing due to climate-related disasters.
Last year, Typhoon Yagi caused over $3.3 billion in damages as it tore through northern regions, leaving a devastating impact on communities and infrastructure.
With Typhoon Bualoi approaching, authorities remain on high alert to minimize casualties and economic losses.
