Over the past few hours, the tropical depression in the Gulf of Tonkin has officially intensified into Storm No. 4 of 2026, posing an immediate threat to the mainland. Northern Vietnam weather is shifting rapidly into an extremely hazardous state. Take two minutes to read this emergency response guide to safeguard your family and property.
1. Storm Eye Moving Slowly Directly Toward the Northeast
According to the latest storm news, the system is advancing slowly at just 10–15 km/h, with its center aimed directly at coastal and inland northeastern provinces. A slow-moving storm gathers more dense moisture and lingers longer over land, potentially multiplying its destructive impact.
- Real-life Example: Off Van Don (Quang Ninh), wind gusts surged to level 7–8 this morning, sending 3-meter-high waves pounding against the Cai Rong port embankment and forcing all ferry operations to a complete standstill.
2. Extreme Risks of Severe Flooding and Landslides
Today's weather forecast warns that as the storm enters Northern Vietnam, its outer bands will dump 200–350 mm of torrential rain across midland and mountainous provinces. Saturated soils from previous downpours heighten the risk of flash floods and catastrophic landslides to critical levels.
- Real-life Example: Slopes in Hoang Su Phi (Ha Giang) have already developed cracks over 15 meters long, prompting local authorities to cordon off the area as heavy rains threaten to trigger massive mudslides onto provincial roads.
3. Urgent Government Response from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa
The Prime Minister has issued an urgent directive ordering coastal provinces from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa to ban sea departures and evacuate vulnerable residents from low-lying zones and aquaculture rafts before landfall.
- Real-life Example: In Do Son (Hai Phong), border guards helped secure over 400 fishing vessels at Vung Huong harbor and completed the evacuation of seniors and children from offshore watch houses before 11:00 AM.
4. Three Steps to Protect Home and Family Before Landfall
To minimize damage caused by Storm No. 4, households should immediately execute these measures:
- Reinforce the house: Anchor corrugated metal roofs with sandbags and apply X-tape patterns over large glass windows to prevent shattering.
- Stockpile emergency supplies: Store at least a 3-day supply of drinking water, non-perishable foods, charged power banks, flashlights, and a standard first-aid kit.
- Elevate valuable electronics: Move motorcycles, refrigerators, and washing machines to higher floors or elevated platforms.
- Real-life Example: A family in Cam Pha City proactively placed 12 sandbags across their porch roof and raised their motorbikes on 50cm wooden pallets to avoid sudden runoff flooding from adjacent hills.
Conclusion
Never underestimate the erratic nature of severe storms. Staying informed through verified weather updates is essential. Right now, start directly with Section 4 to secure and reinforce your home before gale-force winds strike!