Sarika weakens to a tropical depression

According to the National Hydro-meteorological Forecast Center, Quang Ninh, Hai Phong and Lang Son provinces have experienced heavy rains over hours due to the impact of storm Sarika. Although the Sarika's winds have weakened, it still poses a major threat of flooding as the storm moves inland. Rainfall totals of 100 to 150mm, or even up to 250mm are possible through Thursday in north-eastern and northern central localities.

Following Sarika, another strong storm, Haima, will soon make its way to the East Sea. Haima is predicted to move in West-Northwest direction at 25 to 30km per hour. Vietnam is hit by an average of eight to ten tropical storms between July and October every year, which often cause heavy material and human losses.