Tropical Storm Wipha Slams Vietnam

Tropical Storm Wipha struck northern Vietnam on Tuesday, unleashing strong winds and heavy rainfall across the region. The storm, initially a typhoon, weakened and made landfall with gusts reaching up to 138 kph, according to local weather authorities.

As the storm moved inland, power outages were reported in Hung Yen Province, prompting residents to stock up on fuel for generators. The streets of Hanoi were deserted, and businesses shuttered as the city government urged residents to remain indoors and avoid flood-prone areas.

With flights canceled and airports in Hai Phong and Quang Ninh closed, nearly 150,000 hectares of aquaculture farms were at risk. Experts warn that global warming is increasing the intensity of such storms, impacting regions like the Philippines, where over 80,000 people are in shelters after severe flooding.

(With inputs from agencies.)