Vietnam is on high alert as Typhoon Kalmaegi barrels toward its coastline, having already left a devastating trail of destruction across the Philippines.
The storm, which has intensified over the South China Sea, killed at least 114 people and submerged several towns in the Philippines before moving westward.
According to meteorological agencies, Kalmaegi has grown in strength and is now one of Asia’s most powerful typhoons this year. Forecasters warn that coastal regions in Vietnam could face towering waves reaching up to eight metres (24 feet), along with torrential rains and severe flooding.
The Vietnamese government has begun large-scale emergency preparations, with six airports temporarily shut down and hundreds of flights cancelled or delayed.
Authorities have also ordered fishing boats to return to shore and urged residents in vulnerable coastal areas to evacuate to higher ground.
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha described Kalmaegi as a “very abnormal” storm, stressing that local officials must respond with utmost urgency. “We are already facing record rainfall and flooding — this storm could make things far worse if we are not fully prepared,” he said.
The typhoon’s projected path suggests it will make landfall along Vietnam’s central coast within the next 24 hours, potentially impacting the provinces of Quang Ngai, Da Nang, and Thua Thien-Hue. Meteorologists warn that even inland areas could experience flash floods and landslides due to saturated soil from weeks of relentless rain.
As Kalmaegi roars closer, rescue teams and local authorities are racing against time to strengthen embankments, secure homes, and move residents from danger zones. The government has placed military and emergency response units on standby for rapid deployment.
