According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF), as of midday on September 17, forecasts indicate a 70% probability that the storm will move toward the coastal region between Thanh Hoa and Quang Nam provinces.

At 11:00am, the NCHMF reported that the depression, currently located in the eastern part of the northern East Sea, is expected to develop into a Category 8 typhoon within 24 hours. It is projected to move westward, nearing the Hoang Sa (Paracel) Islands before shifting northwest.

Meteorologists suggest a 70% likelihood that the storm will target the seas between Thanh Hoa and Quang Nam. There is also a slim chance (less than 15%) that it could deviate either northward toward the Gulf of Tonkin or southward to the South Central Coast.

Presently, the tropical depression's center has winds ranging from 50 to 61 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 88 km/h, and is moving west at approximately 20 km/h.

In the next 24 to 48 hours, the system is predicted to intensify into a typhoon, with sustained winds of 62 to 88 km/h and gusts up to 102 km/h. It may alter its course slightly, shifting northwest at around 10 km/h.

Due to the approaching storm, the eastern part of the northern East Sea will experience severe weather, with waves reaching heights of 3 to 5 meters. Vessels operating in the area are advised to brace for strong winds and turbulent seas.

The storm is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to affected areas, creating dangerous conditions for both ships and coastal communities.

Bao Anh