VietNamNet Bridge – The National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting warned yesterday, Jan 3, of a tropical depression in the East Sea which may hit the waters and islands between the provinces of Da Nang and Kien Giang this morning.

Photo: NCHMF

Yesterday afternoon the first Pacific tropical depression of the 2013 typhoon season was located at 8.7 degrees North latitude and 121.1 degrees East longitude, 290km to the east of the Philippine island of Palawan, with gusts from levels 7-9. The sustained wind was measured at a maximum of 56km per hour.

It is forecast to move westwards at a rapid speed of 25-30km per hour meaning that by 1pm today it is expected to be located in the southern part of the Truong Sa (Spratly) Islands. Tonight and tomorrow the tropical depression is forecast to develop into a typhoon, with strong winds and rough waters expected in the East Sea.

Local authorities and rescue and search teams in the danger areas were asked to prepare 24 hours in advance. Ships have been well anchored and instructed to maintain contact with authorities in case of any possible problems.

The ministries of national defence, transport, foreign affairs, trade and industry, agriculture and rural development have been warned to prepare for the depression.

Source: VNS