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

A tropical depression that formed in the South China Sea (East Sea), off the coast of Vietnam, intensified into a tropical storm on the afternoon of August 4th. According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of 1 PM local time on August 4th, the center was located around 17.0 degrees North latitude and 119.7 degrees East longitude, in the southeastern waters of the northern region. The maximum wind speed near the center reached level 6 (39-49 km/h), with gusts up to level 8, moving northwest at a speed of 5-10 km/h. By 1 AM on August 5th, it is forecast to move slowly eastward, maintaining its strength of level 6 with gusts up to level 8 in the southeastern waters of the northern region. Subsequently, by 1 PM on the same day, it is expected to move southeastward at approximately 10 km/h, entering the vicinity of northern Luzon Island, Philippines, and gradually weakening into a tropical depression. Due to the influence of this tropical depression, strong winds of level 6 with gusts up to level 8 are expected in the southeastern waters of the northern region from the afternoon to the night of August 4th. Sea waves are predicted to be 2-3 meters high, leading to rough seas. Meteorological authorities assess that this tropical depression will not have a direct impact on Vietnam's coastal areas and mainland. However, vessels operating in dangerous waters are advised to be cautious of thunderstorms, squalls, strong winds, and high waves.