^{Photo: CNN}

Vietnam is bracing for Typhoon Kajiki, the strongest storm of the year, with authorities shutting airports, closing schools, and ordering mass evacuations to protect residents along the central coast.

Storm Strength and Path

Typhoon Kajiki was 150 kilometers off Vietnam’s central coast as of early Sunday morning, with sustained winds of up to 166 kph (103 mph) and forecasted to strengthen before making landfall on Monday afternoon. The eye of the storm is expected to hit Thanh Hoa and Nghe An provinces around 9 a.m. GMT.

Vietnam’s long coastline along the South China Sea makes it highly vulnerable to storms, which often trigger deadly flooding and mudslides. Government officials warned that Kajiki is extremely dangerous and fast-moving, with potential for heavy rains, landslides, and property damage.

Evacuations and Safety Measures

The Vietnamese government has announced the evacuation of more than 500,000 people, particularly from low-lying coastal areas. Authorities have also ordered fishing boats and smaller vessels to remain ashore for safety.

Two major airports in Thanh Hoa and Quang Binh provinces have been temporarily closed, with Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet canceling dozens of flights to and from the affected regions. Schools and public facilities in the projected path of the storm have been closed as a precaution.

Historical Context

Officials compared Typhoon Kajiki to Typhoon Yagi, which struck Vietnam less than a year ago, claiming approximately 300 lives and causing $3.3 billion in damages. The government is acting early to prevent a repeat of such devastation, emphasizing preparation and timely evacuations.

Regional Impact

Kajiki passed near China’s Hainan Island on Sunday, prompting the closure of businesses and public transport in Sanya City as it moved toward Vietnam. Meteorologists warn that the storm could cause severe disruption not only locally but across the wider South China Sea region.

Economic and Infrastructure Risks

With half a million residents displaced and airports closed, the storm poses significant risks to Vietnam’s economy, particularly agriculture, fisheries, and transportation networks. Early evacuation efforts aim to reduce human casualties, but infrastructure damage could take weeks to repair, impacting trade and local industries.

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