On the opening day of July 11, participants heard report on flood and storm prevention activities in 2006, and discussed orientations and tasks for 2007, storm predictions in 2007 and a national strategy on preventing and minimizing the aftermath of natural calamities till 2020.

The Central Steering Committee for Flood and Storm Prevention and Control, and the National Committee for Search and Rescue asked the central coastal provinces and cities to reinforce sea and river-mouth dykes, build storm shelters for boats, dredge river-mouths and waterways leading to shelters and check all facilities available and make other preparation for rescue work.

According to the National Centre for Hydrometeorology, Vietnam is likely to be hit by 5-6 or more storms and tropical low pressure during this season.

The seminar was co-organized by the Central Steering Committee for Flood and Storm Prevention and Control, the National Committee for Search and Rescue, the Ministry of Fisheries and the Quang Ngai provincial People’s Committee.