Local hydrometeorological stations improve forecasts to proactively mitigate storm impact

Fishing boats docked at Nam Cửa Việt Storm Shelter in the central Quảng Trị Province. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — As Việt Nam is one of the countries most affected by climate change and natural disasters in the world, weather forecast technology and human resources are crucial to the country to prevent damage and fatalities from extreme natural phenomena. 

According to the Việt Nam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration, storm and tropical depression forecasts in the country have made remarkable progress and are on par with other developed countries in the region and the world. 

Local hydrometeorological stations have made constant improvements for more accurate forecasts, while proactively communicating with local authorities for better preparations against natural disasters. 

The central province of Quảng Trị is among the most affected by severe weather phenomena in Việt Nam, notably storms and floods. 

Statistics between 2014 and 2024 showed that the locality witnessed 17 typhoons and tropical depressions and was indirectly impacted by 20 others. 

Aiming to minimise the damage caused by natural disasters and ensure a stable socio-economic development for the people, Quảng Trị Hydrometeorological Station has been working to apply advanced technology in their forecasts.

Phạm Ngọc Phương, a forecaster at the station said various technologies have been used to collect and analyse data such as synoptic maps, Himawari Satellite and radar images to produce forecasts with the highest possible accuracy. 

In addition to traditional media, the station is also leveraging social media platforms and mobile applications to make it easier for people to receive this crucial information. 

Khánh Hòa Province is another locality severely affected by typhoons and tropical depressions every year. 

In 2017, Typhoon Damrey made landfall in the south-central coastal province, killing 45 people and causing damage worth trillions of đồng. 

Khánh Hòa People’s Committee chairman Nguyễn Tấn Tuân said that Typhoon Damrey has left the province with painful memories, including people’s negligence to weather forecasts from hydrometeorological agencies or the media. 

Aware of the dangers of storms and tropical depressions, in recent years, the South-central Regional Hydrometeorological Station has been working to improve forecasts to ensure quick, accurate information and alleviate the damage to people’s lives and assets. Last year, Khánh Hòa Province recorded no fatalities due to natural disasters. 

In the province’s Hòn Rớ Fishing Port, many fishing vessel captains and owners now closely follow storm forecasts to proactively prepare for their multi-day sailing trips. 

Bùi Hót, the captain of the fishing vessel No QNg 9387 said: “As a fisherman, I regularly look up weather forecasts. 

“If we’re fishing at sea and hear that a storm or tropical depression is coming, I will direct our ship out of the danger zone and return to a safe area.” 

Trần Văn Hưng, deputy director of the South-central Regional Hydrometeorological Station also said that thanks to advanced technology applications, the agency has been able to produce more accurate and early forecasts and warnings, contributing to better disaster prevention and control plans. 

Since the beginning of the rainy season this year, Khánh Hòa has been deploying various measures to ensure dam safety and people’s awareness of the incoming storms. 

Khánh Hòa Director of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyễn Duy Quang, who also serves as the deputy head of the local steering committee for natural disaster control, prevention, search and rescue said: “We ensure tasks assigned by the local authorities such as develop a comprehensive system of reservoirs, canals as well as river and coastal breakwaters.”

It is hoped that with these comprehensive actions and improved technology in forecasting and warning, the public will proactively respond to natural disasters and suffer less from damage caused by storms and tropical depressions. — VNS