Storm Koguma makes landfall, heavy rain, gusts hit northern, central coasts

At 07.00am Koguma was located at about 19.9 degrees North latitude; 105.5 degrees East longitude, on the coastal area from Thai Binh to Nghe An provinces, packing winds of between 60-75kph near its centre, according to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF).

In the next six hours, the storm is forecast to move west and north-west at speeds of 15-20 kph and gradually weaken into a tropical depression.

Strong winds and heavy rainfall lashed areas along northern and north-central coastal areas as the storm moved further inland on June 13.

The northern delta, midland and areas from Thanh Hoa to Ha Tinh provinces are anticipated to receive heavy to heavy rain and thunderstorms, with average rainfall of 50-120mm. Some places are likely to even record excessive rainfall of 200-250mm and above.

All coastal localities from Quang Ninh to Nghe An and Ha Tinh have issued a ban on setting sail for fishing vessels. All vessels operating at sea have been required to move ashore or seek nearby storm shelters.

Relevant forces, including volunteers and rescue workers, have been mobilized to operate in low-lying areas and areas vulnerable to floods and landslides to respond to possible emergencies.

Storm Koguma is anticipated to cause heavy rain in mountainous localities after it weakens and dissipate on the mainland.