Vietnam is bracing for Typhoon Kajiki, which is shaping up to be the strongest storm of the year to hit Vietnam’s central coast. Airports have been closed, schools shut, and residents ordered to evacuate as a precaution against the extreme weather.
Kajiki is packing winds of up to 166 kph (103 mph) and is advancing toward the central region, with officials warning that it could intensify further before making landfall on Monday afternoon. The government described the system as an extremely dangerous, fast-moving storm, cautioning that Kajiki would bring heavy rains, floods, and landslides.
As of early Sunday, Kajiki was about 150 km off the central coast, and meteorologists forecast the eye to strike an area between Thanh Hoa and Nghe An provinces around 0900 GMT. Vietnam’s long coastline along the South China Sea makes it particularly vulnerable to powerful storms that can trigger cascading flooding and mudslides.
Officials said Kajiki could be as formidable as Typhoon Yagi, which battered Vietnam less than a year ago, causing roughly 300 deaths and about $3.3 billion in property damage. In anticipation, authorities ordered the evacuation of more than half a million people and directed boats to remain ashore to reduce risk at sea.
Two airports in Thanh Hoa and Quang Binh provinces were shut down, and major carriers like Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet cancelled dozens of flights to and from the area. The cyclone’s approach also led to the temporary closure of facilities and services along the central coast as authorities mobilized emergency response measures.
Kajiki skirted the southern coast of China’s Hainan Island on Sunday, a development that kept the storm on a direct course toward Vietnam and underscored the need for vigilance across the region. The Vietnamese authorities remain watchful for rapid changes in the storm’s track and intensity and have urged residents to follow official briefings and heed evacuation and safety instructions.
In the broader context, Vietnam has repeatedly faced powerful storms in recent years, with central regions experiencing severe rain, flooding, and landslides when typhoons make landfall. The government’s proactive evacuation plan and the shutdown of nonessential transport reflect lessons learned from past storms and a commitment to protecting vulnerable communities.
What this means for residents and travelers
– Expect temporary disruptions to flights and road transport as authorities implement safety measures and shelter programs.
– Stay tuned to official warnings and follow guidance from local authorities, especially for those in the most exposed provinces.
– If you are in evacuation areas, seek shelter in designated facilities and avoid flooded or unstable areas.
Summary
Vietnam is preparing for Typhoon Kajiki, the year’s strongest storm so far, with evacuations, airport closures, and flight cancellations as authorities warn of heavy rain, floods, and landslides. The storm’s forecast landfall between Thanh Hoa and Nghe An underscores the importance of timely preparations and adherence to safety directives.
A note for readers: While the situation remains fluid, the focus is on safety, community resilience, and clear communication from officials. If you’re in the affected region, prioritize shelter and follow the latest official updates to minimize risk and protect your family.
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