Tropical depression in the East Sea moves northeast, remains weak

A tropical depression situated about 500 km east of the Hoàng Sa islands is tracking northeast across the East Sea at roughly 20‑25 km/h. Forecasts from the National Center for Hydro‑Meteorological Forecasting indicate the system will not intensify into a tropical storm and will gradually weaken. Wind speeds near the centre are expected to reach force 6 (39‑49 km/h) with gusts up to force 8, while sea waves may rise 2‑4 m, prompting maritime warnings for vessels in the affected zones.

On land, the peripheral effects are bringing heavy rain to Vietnam’s northern provinces, especially Điện Biên, Sơn La and Lào Cai, where accumulations of 10‑30 mm (locally over 60 mm) are forecast. Authorities highlight heightened flood and landslide risk in many communes, urging local agencies to clear drainage obstructions and prepare response measures. The depression is projected to move further northeast toward the waters off Taiwan over the next 48 hours, maintaining its current intensity before dissipating.

Overall, the system poses limited threat to Vietnam’s mainland but may cause localized agricultural and infrastructure impacts due to rain‑induced flooding and landslides.