Viet Nam braces for first tropical storm in 2026

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, the storm was centered over waters northwest of the Hoang Sa special zone at 7:00 a.m. on July 3, packing sustained winds of 62–74 kph and gusts of up to 102 kph.

The storm is forecast to move north-northwest over the next one to two days before entering the Gulf of Tonkin and making landfall along the coast of Quang Ninh on July 5. It is expected to maintain force 8 winds with gusts reaching force 10 as it moves inland.

By July 6, the storm is forecast to weaken into a tropical depression before further dissipating into a low-pressure area over southern Guangxi, China.

Authorities warned that the storm could affect 12 northern localities, including Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, Hung Yen, Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, Lang Son, Cao Bang, Ha Giang, Bac Ninh, Thai Nguyen and Ha Noi.

The storm is currently generating force 6–7 winds across the northwestern part of the East Sea, including the Hoang Sa special zone, with force 8 winds near its center and gusts of up to force 10. Its influence is expected to spread to the Gulf of Tonkin from the night of July 3.

Wave heights of 2–4 meters and rough seas are forecast, posing risks to fishing vessels, cargo ships, tourist boats and other marine activities. Fishing operations, maritime transport and coastal tourism may face disruptions.

From the afternoon of July 4, coastal areas of Quang Ninh, Hai Phong and Hung Yen are expected to experience force 6 winds, increasing to force 7–8 near the storm's center, with gusts of up to force 9–10.

Sea waves along the coast may reach 2–3 meters, while storm surge could raise sea levels by 0.3–0.5 meters. Residents and vessels operating in affected areas have been advised to closely monitor official forecasts and take necessary precautions./.