Tropical Cyclone “Usagi” about to make landfall in southern Vietnam

Severe Tropical Storm "Usagi," known in the Philippines as Samuel, continues moving westward over the South China Sea and strengthening while approaching southern Vietnam. This is the 27^th named storm of the 2018 Pacific typhoon season and the 8^th tropical cyclone to hit Vietnam this season. It comes just several days after Tropical Cyclone "Toraji" hit the country, leaving more than 12 people dead.

At 15:00 UTC on November 23, the center of Tropical Cyclone "Usagi" was located approximately 450 km (280 miles) east of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. The system is moving westward at 16 km/h (10 mph) with maximum sustained winds of 102 km/h (63 mph) and gusts to 130 km/h (80 mph).

Usagi is expected to continue tracking westward over the next 24 hours while strengthening. 

Landfall is expected close to Vung Tau town late in the afternoon (UTC), November 24 with maximum sustained winds between 75 and 93 km/h (46 – 58 mph).

 A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Vietnam's South East Region.

Heavy rainfalls, strong winds and thunderstorms could affect South Central Coast, Central Highlands, South East and northern Mekong Delta Regions of Vietnam on November 24 and 25 November.

Usagi moved over the Philippines on November 21, leaving at least one person dead due to floods triggered by heavy rainfall.

In addition, national authorities reported 61 574 people affected in 128 municipalities across Samar Island (Eastern Visayas Region) and southern Bicol Region.

Featured image: Tropical Cyclone "Usagi" at 13:20 UTC on November 23, 2018. Credit: JMA/Himawari-8