According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of 7 a.m. on October 20, the eye of Storm No. 12 (international name Fengshen) was located about 490 kilometers northeast of the Paracel Islands.

Winds near the center were at level 9 (75-88 km/h), with gusts reaching level 11.

The storm was moving northwest at approximately 25 km/h.

Forecasts indicate that by the morning of October 23, Storm No. 12 will approach the coastal region from Hue to Quang Ngai with wind speeds reaching level 8.

In the next 72 to 96 hours, the storm is expected to shift west-southwest at a reduced speed of about 10 km/h and gradually weaken into a tropical depression.

The combination of the storm’s circulation, incoming cold air, easterly wind disturbances, and the terrain effect is projected to cause widespread, prolonged heavy rainfall across central Vietnam, particularly from Ha Tinh to Quang Ngai, between October 22 and 27.

Some areas may experience extremely heavy rain, increasing the risk of flash floods, landslides in mountainous areas, and inundation in low-lying or urban regions.

Meteorological authorities have warned localities to ensure the safe operation of hydropower and irrigation reservoirs before, during, and after the storm.

Provinces are urged to prepare response plans for flooding scenarios, especially in river basins from Quang Tri to Quang Ngai, where water levels may exceed the third-level flood warning threshold.

The risk level for natural disasters due to floods and inundation is forecast at level 3.

At sea, the northern part of the East Sea (including the Paracel Islands) will experience winds at levels 7-8, with areas near the storm center reaching levels 9-11 and gusts up to level 13.

Waves may reach heights of 3-5 meters, and 5-7 meters near the storm center.

The sea will be extremely rough.

All vessels operating within the danger zone face a high risk of encountering thunderstorms, whirlwinds, strong winds, and high waves.

Bao Anh