Typhoon Kalmaegi has made landfall in Vietnam following its impact on the Philippines. The storm has resulted in at least 114 fatalities and widespread flooding in the Philippines. In Vietnam, winds reaching up to 92mph (149km/h) have affected coastal regions, prompting the deployment of over 260,000 soldiers for rescue operations.
Impact in Vietnam
Six airports in Vietnam have been closed, affecting hundreds of flights. The country, which has been experiencing significant rainfall and floods, is now contending with one of Asia's more powerful typhoons this year. The Vietnamese weather bureau forecasts waves of up to 8m (26ft) in the South China Sea. The environment ministry confirmed the storm's presence on land in Dak Lak and Gia Lai provinces. Hundreds of localities across seven cities and provinces are at risk of flooding and landslides within the next six hours.
Initial reports indicate damage in several provinces, including torn roofs, shattered glass panels, and uprooted trees. In Quy Non, trees have fallen across main roads and hotel windows have been damaged. The typhoon made landfall in Vietnam at 19:29 local time (12:29 GMT). Approximately 30 minutes later, residents in two communes of Dak Lak province, located about 350km (215 miles) north-east of Ho Chi Minh City, reported home collapses and flooding amidst continued strong winds and heavy rain.
Response Efforts in Vietnam
Vietnam's military has deployed over 260,000 personnel and more than 6,700 vehicles, including six aircraft, for storm relief. Officials were observed warning coastal residents to evacuate. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh held an online meeting to coordinate the emergency response, emphasizing the need to provide food, drinking water, and essential supplies to isolated areas.
Impact in the Philippines
Before reaching Vietnam, the typhoon, locally known as Tino, caused significant damage in the Philippines. At least 114 individuals were killed, and tens of thousands were evacuated, particularly from central areas such as Cebu, where vehicles were reportedly displaced by floodwaters. On Thursday morning, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr declared a state of emergency due to mass casualties, extensive property damage, and disruption to livelihoods.