Vietnam prepares to face the “Elephant” Typhoon by Steph Ball
Typhoon Xangsane, meaning “elephant” in the Lao language, caused chaos earlier this week as it crossed the Philippines. Ferry ports and airports were closed and some fatalities were reported as a large area was hit by torrential rains causing flooding and landslides.
Since moving into the South China Sea on route to Vietnam, the typhoon has strengthened to a category 4 typhoon with gusts reaching 160mph. Xangsane is on a westerly path and expected to make landfall in Vietnam later today or during the early hours of Sunday morning with estimated winds still over 100mph.
As Vietnam lies in wait, authorities are working to evacuate residents of the country’s central coast. At present it is expected to make landfall in the Quang Ngai province, where Vietnam is building its first oil refinery. The authorities fear for fishermen though, not having been able to contact 522 vessels still at sea.
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