HCMC – A tropical depression northwest of Vietnam’s Spratly Islands intensified into a tropical storm, named Pabuk, on December 23, marking the 10th storm to affect Vietnam this year, reported the local media.
As of 1 p.m., the storm’s center was located northwest of the Spratly Islands, with sustained winds of 62-74 km/h and gusts reaching up to 92 km/h, reported the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting. The storm has been moving west-northwest at 10 km/h.
Pabuk is forecast to continue shifting northwest over the next 24 hours, traveling at 5-10 km/h. By 1 p.m. on December 24, its center is expected to be southwest of the central East Sea, maintaining similar intensity.
The storm is predicted to weaken from tomorrow night, moving southwest toward the waters near Phu Yen and Ba Ria-Vung Tau by the afternoon of December 25, with wind speeds slowing to 39-49 km/h, according to forecasters.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated in the central and southern regions. Coastal provinces from Danang to Khanh Hoa are forecast to receive 40-120 mm of rainfall, with localized areas exceeding 200 mm on December 24. Rain is expected to persist into December 25 in the Central Highlands, with some areas accumulating up to 150 mm.
Flooding, landslides, and river surges are likely in low-lying and mountainous areas, particularly in Quang Nam to Khanh Hoa provinces.
Wave heights in affected waters may reach 4-6 meters. Authorities have advised fishermen and vessels in these areas to exercise caution and take necessary safety measures.
