Vietnam is bracing for Typhoon Kajiki, with authorities enacting evacuations for more than 586,000 residents from provinces such as Thanh Hoa, Quang Tri, Hue, and Da Nang. The storm, which has already exhibited powerful winds reaching 166 km/h (103 mph), is expected to further intensify before making landfall. Key weather predictions indicate that while the storm may weaken slightly as it enters inland areas, it could still unleash devastating winds of up to 200 km/h and rainfall amounts between 300-400 mm (approximately 12-16 inches).
In light of the impending threat, flights have been canceled and maritime activities suspended, with vessels advised to remain ashore. The typhoon is currently impacting Hainan, China, where heavy rainfall is forecasted, reaching up to 320 mm (12.6 inches). Vietnamese authorities are reiterating warnings for residents in the storm’s potential path, urging them to stay indoors after 14:00 GMT on Sunday to avoid life-threatening conditions.
Aid efforts are being mobilized, including the deployment of soldiers to assist with evacuations and disaster preparedness. Officials cite the dire situation, advising against travel near coastal regions or engaging in fishing operations due to safety concerns. The severity of Typhoon Kajiki raises alarm as it has the potential to mirror the devastation of Typhoon Yagi from September of the previous year, which resulted in hundreds of fatalities, including 300 lives lost in Vietnam alone.
