A powerful storm is bearing down on the nation, stirring urgent preparations across all sectors. Typhoon Ragasa, the ninth major storm of the year for this region, is expected to bring widespread disruption. Forecasters warn it could be the most damaging storm to hit the country since Typhoon Yagi swept through earlier in 2024.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has put the entire government on high alert. He issued a swift directive, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on Monday, demanding that every ministry, local authority, and military unit mobilize their resources. The message is clear: brace for the worst-case scenario and leave nothing to chance. Officials are checking evacuation plans, shoring up dikes and reservoirs, and recalling fishing boats from the sea. This critical order went out to every cabinet ministry, national television, and military command.
The top military brass has already taken action. The Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force are on standby with ships, aircraft, and personnel. Their mission includes assisting with evacuations, rescue efforts, and disaster relief. Border units are also tightening coastal controls, counting vessels, and making sure all fishermen know the storm’s predicted path.
Various government departments are stepping up their efforts:
- The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is working to strengthen sea barriers and irrigation systems. They are also securing dams and hydropower plants.
- The Ministry of Construction has orders to inspect and reinforce buildings. This includes schools and hospitals. They are also checking drainage systems, roads, and bridges.
- The Ministry of Industry and Trade is focused on protecting vital energy infrastructure. Oil rigs, power plants, and mines are being secured. They are also making sure food and fuel supplies remain stable, stopping anyone from hoarding or price gouging.
- The Ministry of Science and Technology, along with telecom providers, must keep communication and internet services running smoothly.
- The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health are prioritizing the safety of students and patients. Schools might close temporarily. Emergency medical services are being prepared.
- The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism is looking after visitors. They are especially focused on tourists in coastal areas and on islands.
The Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting reports that Ragasa will maintain its peak strength through Tuesday. Waves could reach over 10 meters, making sea conditions extremely hazardous. By September 24, the typhoon is expected to pass near China’s Leizhou Peninsula before moving into the Gulf of Tonkin. It might make landfall in Vietnam between Quang Ninh and Ha Tinh provinces on September 25. Wind speeds could still be as high as 120–170 km/h. Because Ragasa has such a wide reach, many areas could face strong winds and heavy rains. This could happen even hundreds of kilometers from the storm’s center. People in the northern and north-central parts of the country should watch the situation closely. They should follow official advice and be ready to evacuate immediately if told to do so.
Source: Vietnamnews