Tropical Depression Strengthens into Typhoon No. 3, Limited Direct Impact on Vietnam Coast

A tropical depression in the waters east of Vietnam has intensified into Typhoon No. 3, internationally known as Kujira. This marks the third typhoon of 2026. According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of 4 AM on August 5 (local time), the center of the typhoon was located at approximately 17 degrees North latitude and 118.9 degrees East longitude, in the waters southeast of the northern South China Sea. The maximum wind speed near the eye was force 8 (62-74 km/h), with gusts up to force 10. The typhoon was moving eastward at a speed of about 10 km/h. By 4 AM on August 6, the typhoon had shifted its course to the east-northeast, moving at 5-10 km/h towards the northwest of Luzon Island, Philippines. At this point, it weakened into a tropical depression, with maximum sustained winds near the center at force 7 (50-61 km/h) and gusts up to force 9. The affected area is the waters southeast of the northern South China Sea. The natural disaster risk level was assessed as Level 3. By 4 AM on August 7, the center of the tropical depression was located northeast of Luzon Island, Philippines, and was gradually weakening into an area of low pressure. Due to the typhoon's influence, the sea area southeast of the northern South China Sea experienced winds of force 6-7, with gusts up to force 9. Near the typhoon's center, winds reached force 8 with gusts up to force 10. Wave heights ranged from 2-4 meters, indicating rough seas. Ships operating in the aforementioned dangerous zones are at risk of encountering squalls, whirlwinds, strong winds, and high waves. Meteorological authorities predict that Typhoon No. 3 will not have a direct impact on Vietnam's coastal areas or mainland. Source: Nhan Dan