Storm Utor to sweep over northern region

>> Sixth storm to make landfall in Vietnam

Super storm Utor is forecast to weaken into a tropical depression after making landfall in the southwestern part of Guangdong province, China.

According to the National Hydro-Meteorological Forecast Centre, by 7 am on August 15, storm Utor slammed into this area with winds of up to 62-74 km per hour at its centre.

In the next 24 hours, Utor will move northwest, change into its west direction at a speed of 10-15 km per hour, move further inland and weaken into a low pressure system with wind speeds of 39-49kph.

Super storm Utor is forecast to weaken to a tropical depression after making landfall in southwestern area of China’s Guangdong province.

According to the National Hydro-Meteorological Forecast Centre, by 7 am on August 15, storm Utor swept through the southeastern area of China’s Guangxi province with winds of up to 62-74 km per hour at its centre.

Meanwhile, localities are actively taking preventive measures against possible flash floods and landslides triggered by typhoon Utor.

Cao Bang province has warned of possible heavy showers and landslides and asked local forces to reinforce reservoirs and dams.

Quang Ninh province has inspected the dike systems and urged all fishing vessels operating at sea to find shelter or get back to shore.

Many people living in danger areas have been evacuated for their own safety.

In Thai Nguyen province, the provincial Steering Committee for Storm and Flood Prevention has asked local peoples to brace themselves for the storm.

Local rescue teams are on standby to protect the dike system in the river basin.

Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Cao Duc Phat has ordered coastal provinces stretching from Quang Ninh to Nam Dinh to keep offshore fishing and tourism vessels updated on the storm's movement.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Hoang Van Thang has just approved a plan to set up five teams to inspect irrigation reservoirs during the rainy season.