Mass Evacuations, Destruction as Super Typhoon Yagi Ravages Northern Vietnam
Super Typhoon Yagi wreaked havoc in northern Vietnam on Saturday, leaving at least four dead and over a dozen missing. With winds surpassing 149 km/h (92 mph), the storm uprooted trees, tore roofs off homes, and caused widespread damage in Hai Phong and Quang Ninh provinces.
Authorities confirmed that three of the fatalities occurred in Quang Ninh after flying debris caused by the storm’s strong winds. In Hai Duong province, a man was killed by a falling tree. Rescue teams are currently searching for sailors believed to be missing after boats were swept out to sea.
“It’s been years since I’ve seen a storm like this,” said Hai Phong resident Tran Thi Hoa, recounting the terrifying sounds of the wind and rain.
Trail of Destruction Across Asia
Before making landfall in Vietnam, Yagi barreled through southern China and the Philippines, leaving a trail of destruction. The typhoon killed at least 24 people and injured dozens more. China’s state broadcaster CCTV reported that over 460,000 people were evacuated as winds exceeding 230 km/h (143 mph) battered Hainan and Guangdong provinces.
In the Philippines, Yagi caused severe flooding and landslides earlier in the week, leaving 20 dead and 26 missing. The typhoon gained strength, transforming into a super typhoon as it moved toward Vietnam.
Massive Evacuations and Ongoing Recovery
In Vietnam, approximately 20,000 residents were evacuated ahead of the storm, with thousands sheltered in schools and public buildings. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh urged residents to stay indoors and heed warnings.
Northern Vietnam, including the capital Hanoi, has been experiencing relentless rain and winds since Friday, resulting in the closure of four airports and a ban on sailing. Military forces have mobilized nearly half a million personnel, along with vehicles and planes, to assist in relief efforts.
As Yagi moves inland, recovery efforts are underway across affected regions in Vietnam, China, and the Philippines. Typhoons in the region have become more frequent and intense due to climate change, scientists warn, raising concerns about future disasters.
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