Typhoon Wipha, the third storm to impact Vietnam this year, is expected to intensify to Level 10-11 with gusts up to Level 14 (150-166 km/h) as it makes landfall between Hai Phong and Thanh Hoa provinces on July 22, 2025. After initially weakening, the storm has regained strength, posing a severe threat of widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides in mountainous areas, and deep flooding in low-lying and urban zones across northern and north-central Vietnam. Authorities have issued urgent warnings, ordering emergency responses and evacuations to mitigate the potential for significant damage and casualties.
Wipha's Resurgence: Northern Vietnam Braces for Impact
Vietnam is on high alert as Typhoon Wipha, the third storm of 2025, has unexpectedly strengthened and is now forecast to make landfall with intensified force. After moving through the northern part of China's Leizhou Peninsula, Wipha is predicted to strike the Vietnamese coast, specifically between Hai Phong and Thanh Hoa provinces, around midday on July 22, 2025. Forecasters are warning of peak intensity at Level 10-11, with gusts potentially reaching Level 14 (up to 166 km/h) near the storm's center.
This development comes after initial reports suggested a weakening, highlighting the unpredictable nature of tropical cyclones and the need for continuous vigilance. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has emphasized the severe risks posed by this renewed intensity.
The Path and Projected Impact
Landfall Zone: The primary impact zone is expected to be the coastal areas spanning from Hai Phong to Thanh Hoa.
Wind Speeds: Coastal areas from Quang Ninh to Nghe An are forecast to experience winds of Level 7-9, with gusts up to Level 11. Near the storm's center, winds could reach Level 10-11, gusting to Level 14. Even inland areas, including Hanoi, are preparing for strong winds of Level 5-6, gusting to Level 7-8.
Torrential Rainfall: Wipha is set to bring widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall. The Northeast region, Red River Delta, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An are expected to receive 200-350mm of rain, with some areas potentially exceeding 600mm. Other northern areas and Ha Tinh could see 100-200mm, with localized amounts over 300mm. The NCHMF has issued warnings for extremely high rainfall intensity, with over 150mm expected to fall within just three hours in some locations.
Associated Hazards:
Flash Floods and Landslides: There is a high risk of flash floods and landslides in mountainous areas, particularly in provinces like Son La, Dien Bien, Quang Tri, and those in the north-central region.
Urban and Low-lying Area Flooding: Widespread deep flooding is anticipated in low-lying and urban areas, including major cities like Hanoi, Hai Phong, and city areas in Bac Ninh and Ninh Binh.
High Tides and Storm Surges: Coastal regions from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa are preparing for dangerous high tides and storm surges, with some areas like Hon Dau (Hai Phong) and Cua Ong (Quang Ninh) potentially experiencing record-high tides of 3.9-4.3m and 4.6-5m respectively.
Severe Weather: The storm's passage also carries risks of tornadoes, lightning, and hail.
Emergency Response and Preparedness
In anticipation of Wipha's impact, Vietnamese authorities have mobilized extensively:
Prime Minister's Directive: Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued an urgent directive on July 19, ordering all ministries, agencies, and affected provinces to implement emergency preparedness measures.
Fishing Vessel Prohibition: Strict prohibitions have been issued for boats and ships to go out to sea, and vessels already offshore have been instructed to find safe shelters.
Evacuations and Warnings: Local authorities are undertaking efforts to evacuate residents from high-risk coastal and mountainous areas. Public warnings are being continuously broadcast.
Infrastructure Protection: Measures are being taken to secure essential infrastructure, including dikes, reservoirs, and power systems.
International Monitoring: The U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Vietnam have also issued weather alerts for U.S. citizens, advising them to monitor local media and weather forecasts and follow directions from local officials.
Typhoon Wipha's trajectory and strengthening underscore the severe threat it poses to northern and north-central Vietnam. The coming hours are critical as the region braces for intense winds, torrential rains, and the very real possibility of widespread flooding and landslides.