Airports Close, Mass Evacuations Ordered as Powerful Storm Approaches Coast

Vietnam is preparing for Typhoon Kajiki, a powerful storm expected to make landfall on the central coast. Airports have been closed, schools are shut, and tens of thousands of people are being moved to safer locations.

The Vietnamese weather agency reported that Kajiki, with winds reaching up to 166 kph (103 mph) at sea, was located approximately 110 km (68 miles) offshore early on August 25. The storm was anticipated to hit land by the afternoon. Authorities have issued warnings about potential flash floods, landslides, and extensive damage as the fast-moving typhoon approaches. The government has described the storm as extremely dangerous.

Kajiki is projected to affect fewer industrialized provinces compared to Typhoon Yagi from the previous year, which resulted in approximately 300 fatalities and caused $3.3 billion in damage. After traversing Vietnam, the typhoon is expected to move inland, passing through Laos and northern Thailand.

Officials have stated that around 30,000 individuals have already been evacuated from coastal areas, with plans to relocate over half a million more. Additionally, approximately 16,500 soldiers and 107,000 paramilitary personnel are prepared for search and rescue operations.

Two airports in Thanh Hoa and Quang Binh provinces have been closed. Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet have canceled numerous flights. All boats have been instructed to remain in port.

Before reaching Vietnam, Kajiki passed by China's Hainan Island, leading to the closure of businesses and public transportation in Sanya. By the morning of August 25, the province had lowered its typhoon alerts but cautioned about heavy rainfall and storms in southern Hainan. Local news sources reported fallen trees and residents seeking shelter in underground garages as the storm moved through.

Vietnam, with its extensive coastline along the South China Sea, is accustomed to typhoons, which often cause deadly flooding and destruction. Authorities have indicated that Kajiki is expected to be the most dangerous storm to impact the country this year.