Tropical Depression Forms in South China Sea, No Impact on Vietnam Mainland

As of 1 PM on August 4, a tropical depression was detected southeast of the northern South China Sea, subsequently intensifying into a tropical storm. The maximum wind speed near the center is 49 km/h (Force 6), with gusts up to Force 8, moving northwest at 5-10 km/h. According to meteorological forecasts, this tropical storm is expected to shift eastward towards the northern Philippines' Luzon Island by 1 AM on August 5. By 1 PM the same day, it will move southeast at approximately 10 km/h and weaken into a low-pressure area. Strong winds of Force 6, with gusts up to Force 8, and waves of 2-3 meters are anticipated in the southeastern waters of the northern South China Sea during the afternoon and night of August 4. Meteorological authorities assess that the tropical storm is unlikely to have a direct impact on Vietnam's coastlines or mainland. However, vessels operating in the sea area between latitudes 16-18 degrees North and east of longitude 119 degrees East may be affected by thunderstorms, squalls, strong winds, and high waves. Since the beginning of the year, the South China Sea has already seen two typhoons, Maysak and Noul, along with two other tropical depressions. Typhoon Maysak, in early July, caused damage in Vietnam, including roof damage to houses, sunken vessels, and impacts on aquaculture, with total losses estimated at around VND 20 billion. Meanwhile, Super Typhoon Dolphin is active in the northwestern Pacific, with maximum sustained winds near the center reaching approximately 162 km/h (equivalent to Force 14 on the Vietnamese scale) as of August 4. This typhoon is forecast to move towards southeastern China and is not expected to enter the South China Sea, but its extensive circulation may enhance the southwest monsoon over the region.