According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, by midday on September 18, the tropical depression intensified into a typhoon, officially recognized as Typhoon No. 8 with the international name "Mitag." The name Mitag was assigned by Micronesia. In the Yapese language, Mitag is a female name meaning “my eyes.”

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Path of Typhoon No. 8 as of the afternoon of September 18. Source: Vietnam Disaster Monitoring System

As of 1 p.m., the storm’s center was located near 19.9°N latitude and 118.4°E longitude, in the northeastern part of the northern East Sea. The maximum sustained winds near the center reached level 8 (62-74 km/h), with gusts up to level 10. The storm was moving northwest at a speed of 15-20 km/h.

Forecasts for the next 24 hours suggest that Typhoon No. 8 will continue on its northwest path, strengthening to level 9. It is expected to make landfall in China’s Guangdong Province by the evening of September 19 before weakening and gradually dissipating. It is unlikely to have a direct impact on Vietnam.

Forecast for the next 24 to 72 hours:

Due to the influence of Typhoon No. 8, the northeastern part of the northern East Sea will experience strong winds ranging from levels 6 to 7, with gusts reaching level 9. Areas near the storm’s center will experience wind levels 8 to 9, with gusts up to level 11. Wave heights will range from 3 to 5 meters. The sea will be extremely rough.

All vessels operating in the affected areas face high risks from thunderstorms, squalls, strong winds, and high waves.

Bao Anh