Storm Trami lands in central Vietnam, posing flood risks and increasing death toll in the Philippines

HANOI/MANILA – Tropical Storm Trami continued to wreak havoc in parts of Southeast Asia on October 27, making landfall in central Vietnam as authorities warn that the heavy rain it unleashes could cause dangerous flooding.

Trami has already left a trail of disaster in the Philippines, with fatalities increasing to at least 85, and the country preparing for a new cyclone and the possible return of Trami.

As many as 41 people were reported missing following the storm that also displaced more than half a million people, the Philippines’ disaster risk reduction agency said Oct. 26. Most deaths from the storm occurred on the main island of Luzon.

In Malaysia, the Malaysian Meteorological Department warned of severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds for northern parts of the peninsula, The Star reported.

In a statement on October 27, it said adverse weather conditions were expected until 4 pm in Perlis; Kedah (Langkawi, Kubang Pasu, Kuala Muda, Sik, Baling, Kulim and Bandar Baharu); Penang; and Perak (Kerian, Larut, Matang and Selama, Hulu Perak, Kuala Kangsar and Kinta).

In Vietnam, rainfall in several parts of provinces from Quang Binh to Quang Nam is forecast to reach 60 centimeters on October 27 and 28, according to the national weather forecasting agency.

“Flood risks are high in urban areas from Ha Tinh provinces to Binh Dinh,” the agency said.

Heavy rains are also expected to hit the Central Highlands, the country’s main coffee-producing area, according to the agency.

Trami, with winds of up to 88 kilometers per hour, was 65 kilometers northeast of Danang at 9 a.m. local time on October 27.

The storm has forced the temporary closure of four airports in central Vietnam, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam. Among them, Danang City International Airport was closed from 6:00 a.m. on October 27 to 4:00 a.m. on October 28.

State media reports said strong Trami winds toppled trees and billboards in Danang.

Vietnam and the Philippines, both with extensive coastlines, are prone to storms and floods that often cause numerous casualties and property damage. Both were also hit by Typhoon Yagi last month.