By: Eniola Amadu
Vietnam has ordered more than 586,000 people to be evacuated ahead of the arrival of Typhoon Kajiki.
The storm is already packing winds of 166km/h (103mph) and is expected to strengthen further before making landfall early on Monday, weather forecasters said.
Forecasters report that the storm is currently generating winds of 166 km/h (103 mph) and is predicted to intensify further before hitting land early Monday.
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Residents of the central provinces of Thanh Hoa, Quang Tri, Hue and Da Nang have been ordered to leave their homes. Air and water means of transportation have been placed on hold.
The storm is passing near China’s Hainan province, where the national weather agency has forecast rainfall of up to 320 mm (12.6 inches).
Officials warned residents to avoid staying outdoors with soldiers deployed to help.
Also, schools and businesses in high-risk areas have been instructed to close, while rail services and dozens of domestic flights have been cancelled to minimise travel risks.
Major highways leading to evacuation centres are congested, as families rush to reach safe zones before the storm hits.
“The situation is extremely dangerous and not safe for any vehicles or structures such as tourism or fishing vessels and aquaculture raising facilities,”
Authorities fear the storm could cause the same amount of destruction as Typhoon Yagi last September, which claimed hundreds of lives across the region, including 300 fatalities in Vietnam.
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However, Vietnam’s disaster response agencies have stockpiled emergency supplies, including food, water, and medical kits, while evacuation shelters are being readied to accommodate displaced residents.
International aid groups have also pledged support in the event of large-scale damage and humanitarian needs following the storm.
