Lam Dong (VNA) - Coastal localities in the central province of Lam Dong are implementing a wide range of measures to proactively prevent and minimise damage to property, and ensure the safety of residents, vessels, and infrastructure, as Storm Koto is forecast to potentially affect coastal waters and bring heavy rainfall to inland areas of the province in the coming days.
Local authorities have activated round-the-clock duty operations, continuously updated storm warnings and flood information and intensified inspections of riverside and seaside areas, low-lying zones, and locations at high risk of landslides and deep flooding. In Phu Quy special zone, its civil defence steering committee has been on continuous duty, closely monitored weather developments, reviewed areas at risk of inundation and landslides, and prepared personnel, equipment, and supplies in accordance with the “four on-the-spot” principle.
The Phu Quy Port Border Guard Station has strengthened strict management of vessels going out to sea and is informing captains and boat owners operating offshore about the location, movement, and developments of Storm Koto, the 15th storm entering the East Sea so far this year, so they can take proactive precautions and ensure the safety of people and property. Coastal residents and owners of aquaculture cages have been advised to secure and relocate their assets to safe areas, while monitoring tidal surges and the risk of coastal erosion.
Phu Quy special zone has intensified communication to residents and tourists regarding weather developments and preventive measures, particularly warning them of the dangers of swimming and participating in water activities during this period.
Along the entire coastal route, Border Guard forces are maintaining around-the-clock duty, monitoring and verifying all vessels operating at sea, and promptly notifying their owners so they can move out of dangerous areas and seek safe shelter. Rescue forces and specialised equipment have been prepared and are ready to respond to any arising emergencies.
According to a report from the Lam Dong provincial Border Guard Command, as of November 26, the province had 8,507 vessels with 44,071 workers. The number of ships currently operating at sea is 1,624, with 8,558 fishermen, among them, 134 vessels with 1,160 workers are operating offshore. There are currently 171 vessels from other localities seeking shelter at ports and storm shelters in Lam Dong.
In response to the complex developments of the coming storm and the risk of heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides, the Chairman of the provincial People's Committee has directed departments, sectors, and localities to urgently implement coordinated response measures and ensure no passive or delayed actions. All units were required to closely monitor the storm's progress, update and notify the public in a timely manner, and proactively prepare disaster prevention plans while maintaining continuous communication.
Local response forces were requested to immediately inspect coastal areas, riverbanks, low-lying regions, and areas at risk of landslides; check the safety of dams and reservoirs; address any violations of flood discharge corridors; and ensure that rescue personnel and equipment are fully prepared, maintaining strict duty schedules./.
Prime Minister orders highest-level response to Storm Koto
PM Pham Minh Chinh asked localities to review and finalise response plans and scenarios, including the emergency evacuation and relocation of residents from high-risk areas, particularly fish farms, aquaculture watch posts, and zones prone to flash floods, landslides, or mudslides, if forecasts indicate strong winds and heavy rain.
