The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) expects five to eight tropical cyclones to affect the central Pacific this season. If you are a U.S. Citizen traveling or residing in Vietnam, you may enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety messages and other travel information. During the approach of a typhoon you should monitor the U.S. Joint Typhoon Warning Center and the Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (Tiếng Việt).
You should also have an emergency plan in place before the approach of a typhoon, as even areas far from the coastline can experience dangerous winds, tornadoes, mudslides, and floods. Please consider the following precautionary measures prior to the advance of a typhoon:
- Locate shelter in your area and follow all official instructions from local authorities, including evacuation if ordered.
- Carry your travel documents at all times (i.e., copies of your U.S. passport, birth certificate, picture ID’s, etc.) or secure them in a safe, waterproof location.
- Secure loose outdoor items (limbs, roofing material, windows (coverings), doors, debris (trash), etc.).
- Fill up your vehicle, generator, and water tanks.
- Check and charge radios.
- Charge cell phones and carry your charger, including portable chargers available for most cell phone models at many convenience stores and electronic shops.
- Have bottled water; make ice.
- Gather flashlights, tools, and first aid supplies.
- Have fresh batteries, candles, matches, water, groceries (canned and/or dry foods), and pet supplies.
- Pack an adequate supply of first-aid materials and prescription medications.
- Let your family and office know how you plan to weather the storm, especially those family members in the United States. Keep them updated regarding your location and well-being.
For more information on how to prepare for typhoons and other natural disasters, please visit the State Department’s Natural Disaster webpage. Please also check the State Department’s Worldwide Caution webpage for Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Vietnam Country Specific Information.
