Tropical Storm Wipha Hits Northern Vietnam, Triggers Floods, Evacuations

Tropical Storm Wipha made landfall in northern Vietnam on July 22, 2025, bringing sustained winds up to 100 km/h and heavy rainfall exceeding 500 mm in some areas, causing widespread flooding and disruptions across northern and central provinces. The storm prompted the evacuation of low-lying zones and suspension of maritime, aviation, and train services, with about 350,000 military and civil defense personnel mobilized for emergency response. Significant impacts included urban flooding in Ninh Bình, power outages on Cô Tô island, and threats to aquaculture infrastructure with nearly 150,000 hectares of fish-farming water surfaces at risk. Hanoi experienced strong winds and heavy rain leading to business closures and travel disruptions, while authorities warned of landslides in mountainous districts and issued flood alerts due to rising river levels. The storm weakened as it moved inland toward Laos but continued to pose threats through heavy rains and flash floods. Concurrently, the Philippines faced ongoing monsoon rains with thousands displaced, highlighting regional weather challenges.