Thousands evacuate as low pressure system nears
(VOV) - Thousands of local people have been ordered to move to higher ground as a tropical low pressure system is heading for the southern coast.
Although the low pressure system was downgraded overnight on November 15, it is expected to dump heavy rains on southern and Central Highland provinces, especially localities in the south-eastern region.
Soc Trang province has decided to evacuate nearly 3,000 residents from flood-prone areas in coastal districts.
Bac Lieu province has allowed more than 177,000 students, including 25,000 at kindergartens, to stay indoors to prevent unwanted incidents in the event of strong winds and heavy downpours.
Lai Thanh An, an official from the provincial Committee for Flood and Storm Control, said all 14 vessels with 129 fishermen on board operating at sea have escaped the danger areas and found safe storm shelters.
HCM City has cabled an urgent telegram, requesting its relevant agencies to be prepared for the tropical low pressure system.
A city official said a cargo ship was dispatched to the island commune of Thanh An on November 15 to support local people. All fishing boats have anchored at Cau Do wharf, and public works and houses have been reinforced.
Meanwhile, a strong cold spell will hit northern localities late on November 16, causing temperatures to drop by 5-6oC to 18-21oC in mountain areas and 18-25oC in the plains.