A tropical depression currently near the Spratly Islands is intensifying and is expected to develop into Storm No. 10 on December 23, with winds reaching Level 8 (62-74 km/h) and gusts at Level 10.

Current position and forecast

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of 7 PM on December 22, the tropical depression was located at 9.5°N, 114.3°E, near the Spratly Islands.

Wind speed near the center: Level 7 (50-61 km/h), gusting to Level 9.

Movement direction: North at 20-25 km/h.

Within the next 24 hours, the tropical depression is forecast to shift northwestward at a slower speed of 15 km/h and strengthen into a storm. By 7 PM on December 23, the storm's center is expected to be over the southwestern central East Sea, maintaining its Level 8 intensity with gusts at Level 10.

Over the following 24 hours, the storm will likely turn west-southwest at a slower pace of 5-10 km/h, remaining in the same area. It is forecast to weaken back into a tropical depression between 48 and 72 hours later.

Impacts on affected areas

The tropical depression, and later storm, is expected to cause strong winds of Level 6-7 across the southern East Sea, including the Spratly Islands.

Areas near the storm's center may experience Level 8 winds with gusts up to Level 10. Wave heights are forecast to reach 4-6 meters, with rough seas.

Heavy rainfall is expected across multiple regions:

1.     From Da Nang to Khanh Hoa (December 23-24): Moderate to heavy rain, with localized torrential downpours and thunderstorms. Rainfall of 30-80 mm, with some areas exceeding 200 mm.

2.     Eastern Central Highlands (early December 24): Moderate to heavy rain, with localized intense rain and thunderstorms. Rainfall of 15-40 mm, with some areas exceeding 70 mm.

3.     From Central to Southern Central Vietnam and Eastern Central Highlands (December 24-25): Rainfall of 50-100 mm, with localized areas exceeding 200 mm. Eastern Central Highlands may see 30-60 mm, with localized totals over 120 mm.

Rainfall intensity is expected to decrease starting December 26.

Southern Vietnam (December 24-25): Scattered rain, with moderate to very heavy rainfall in southeastern areas. Thunderstorms may bring lightning, hail, and strong winds.

Authorities are urging residents and vessels in affected areas to monitor updates and prepare for potential impacts, including strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding. Fishermen and small boats should avoid going out to sea during this period.

The storm’s path and intensity may change, and additional updates will follow as new data becomes available.

 
Bao Anh