Typhoon 'Wipha' Approaches – Vietnam and Thailand on High Alert

(Hanoi, 22nd) Typhoon "Wipha" is approaching Vietnam, with coastal provinces entering a state of emergency to guard against floods and landslides.
"Wipha" is expected to make landfall in Vietnam in the early hours of Tuesday (July 22), likely crossing the coastline between Quang Ninh and Ninh Binh provinces in the north. The national meteorological bureau says the typhoon will bring heavy rainfall, which could cause flooding and mudslides.
On Sunday (20th), Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh urgently ordered coastal provinces to recall ships at sea, evacuate residents from flood-prone areas, prepare emergency food and rescue supplies, and protect communication infrastructure.
Vietnam Airlines and its subsidiary Pacific Airlines canceled at least nine domestic flights on Monday (21st), while low-cost carrier Vietjet Air canceled 12 flights.
Neighboring Thailand has also issued weather warnings regarding "Wipha." The Nation reported that the Thai Meteorological Department predicts widespread heavy or torrential rain in many regions from Sunday through Thursday (24th).
The Bangkok Post reported that the Thai government has set up a 24-hour "war room" to monitor the climate in real time and coordinate disaster relief. The war room has already convened disaster prevention and mitigation authorities, the National Water Resources Office, and the Meteorological Department to jointly assess the impact of "Wipha."
The Thai Ministry of Interior has also instructed local governments to closely monitor areas where rainfall might exceed 90 mm, places prone to flooding, and regions with poor drainage; to reinforce river embankments, clear blockages in drainage ditches, adjust management of reservoirs and waterways to ensure smooth water flow; rescue staff, equipment, and communications systems are put on standby; and residents in high-risk areas should prepare for possible evacuation.

Having previously been hit by 'Wipha,' the Philippines and southern China are still experiencing torrential rains. The Philippine Star reported that on Monday, Greater Manila and several areas on Luzon Island ordered school closures and work suspensions, except for essential government services, medical services, and disaster prevention departments, which continued normal operations.