Super Typhoon Ragasa Bears Down on Vietnam, Authorities Prepare for Widespread Destruction
Vietnam braces for Super Typhoon Ragasa, the ninth storm to hit the East Sea this year. Authorities warn of widespread flooding, flash floods, landslides, and severe thunderstorms as the typhoon approaches, expected to make landfall on Thursday.
Ragasa, packing maximum sustained winds of 184-221 km/h, is moving west-northwest at 20 km/h. Storm-force winds of up to force 12 and waves of four to six metres are forecast for the Gulf of Tonkin by Wednesday evening. Gale-force winds of up to force 14 are expected in the northern part of the East Sea, with waves rising above 10 meters.
Authorities are taking swift action. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, along with local authorities, are securing coastal dams, mobilising emergency teams, distributing sandbags, and preparing evacuations. They aim to minimise damage from high winds and heavy rainfall, with forecasts predicting 100-250 millimeters across the north, and up to 400 millimeters in some localities.
Super typhoon Ragasa is expected to unleash destructive weather across the northern region and the north-central provinces of Thanh Hoa and Nghe An between Wednesday night and Friday. Residents, farmers, and businesses are urged to act swiftly and follow official guidance to ensure their safety.
