HANOI/BEIJING — Vietnam has ordered the evacuation of more than 586,000 people from its central provinces as Typhoon Kajiki barrels toward the coast with destructive winds and torrential rains. The storm, which drenched southern China’s Hainan island earlier this weekend, is forecast to make landfall in Vietnam early Monday.

Evacuations and Transport Shutdowns

Authorities directed residents in Thanh Hoa, Quang Tri, Hue and Da Nang to leave their homes. Fishing vessels were ordered to return to port and remain docked, while Vietnam Airlines cancelled at least 22 domestic flights scheduled for Sunday and Monday. Additional carriers, including Vietjet, reported disruptions.

Officials instructed residents in at-risk areas to remain indoors after 1400 GMT Sunday as soldiers and rescue crews were deployed to support evacuation and emergency response.

Storm Forecast and Risks

Kajiki is packing sustained winds of around 166 km/h (103 mph) and is projected to strengthen further offshore. Forecasters warn of rainfall totals between 300–400 mm in central Vietnam and storm surges of up to four meters (13 feet). Authorities cautioned that aquaculture sites, fishing vessels and coastal tourism infrastructure are especially vulnerable.

In China’s Hainan province, more than 20,000 people were evacuated and the tourist hub of Sanya issued its highest-level red warning before the storm moved westward. Rainfall on the island reached up to 350 mm in some areas, with widespread business and transport shutdowns.

Historic Context and Climate Impact

The Vietnamese government warned the storm could rival Typhoon Yagi, which killed hundreds across the region in September 2024, including more than 300 fatalities in Vietnam. Officials underscored that the frequency of severe storms in the South China Sea basin has risen amid intensifying climate pressures.

Summary

• Evacuations: 586,000+ ordered out of central provinces
• Travel Impact: Dozens of flights cancelled, boats recalled
• Forecast: Winds up to 180 km/h; rain up to 400 mm; surges 2–4 m
• Regional Effect: 20,000 evacuated in China’s Hainan; Sanya shutdown

Authorities said the next 48 hours will be critical as Kajiki approaches landfall, warning that conditions remain “extremely dangerous.” (zai)