Vietnam Braces for Typhoon Kajiki: Airports Closed, Mass Evacuations Underway
Hanoi, 25 August 2025 – Vietnam is preparing for one of the strongest storms of 2025 as Typhoon Kajiki approaches the central provinces with winds reaching 166 km/h (103 mph). Authorities have shut down airports and schools, and mass evacuations are underway to protect residents.
The storm, located about 110 km off Vietnam’s northern central coast, is expected to make landfall on Monday afternoon. The government has warned that the typhoon poses a serious threat to people, vehicles, and infrastructure, including fishing boats and aquaculture facilities. Heavy rain, flooding, and landslides are anticipated.
Over 586,000 residents in provinces such as Thanh Hoa, Quang Tri, Hue, and Danang are slated for evacuation. By Monday, about 30,000 people had already been relocated, while 16,500 soldiers and 107,000 paramilitary personnel have been mobilized for evacuation and rescue operations. Boats are being instructed to remain in port for safety.
Two airports in Thanh Hoa and Quang Binh provinces have been closed, and airlines including Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet have canceled dozens of flights.
Typhoon Kajiki previously affected southern China’s Hainan Island, prompting closures of businesses and transport, though conditions are improving. Authorities have advised residents in Hainan to remain cautious due to heavy rainfall and isolated storms.
The storm is forecast to continue inland, affecting Laos and northern Thailand, extending its impact across Southeast Asia. Residents in central Vietnam are urged to stay indoors and follow government safety instructions as the country braces for one of the year’s most powerful storms.
