A tropical storm has strengthened slightly throughout the day on July 26 and is expected to extend its fast-moving bands of heavy rains and strong winds as the system moves toward the north-eastern region of the Hoang Sa (Paracel).

A tropical storm warning is in effect for the region, the National Hydro Meteorological Forecasting Centre said.

As of mid-day, the centre of the storm was located about 150 km to the north of the Hoang Sa archipelago with wind speeds reaching up to 75 km per hour and moving west-north-westward at a speed of 15-20 km per hour.

Tropical storms carry wind speeds between 63 km and 117 km per hour.

Meteorologists at the Centre said the system has strengthened a little bit and will most likely bring strong winds and rough seas throughout the northern part of the East Sea including the island districts Bach Long Vi, Cat Hai, Co To and Van Don.

In addition, heavy rains and strong winds will also occur during the evening of July 27 in the coastal northern provinces of Quang Ninh and Nam Dinh, bringing with it the potential for tornadoes and flooding.

VOV