Strong tropical storm Jebi hit Vietnam’s mainland on August 3, bringing intense rain and strong gales that have grounded flights and caused damages to many northern and central localities.

The fifth tropical storm to hit Vietnam this year, Jebi made landfall in Mong Cai city, the northern province of Quang Ninh at 9 a.m, packing whirlwind and heavy rain that have blown down two 42-metre telecommunications masts and 10 power poles, and unroofed a school and 212 houses.

Strong winds also made four houses collapse, injuring one person. No death was reported so far in the province.

The storm has isolated Cat Hai island district in the northern port city of Hai Phong , causing a power cut in the area at 11:30 a.m. on August 3.

However, all residents have been moved to safe places with prepared food, drinks and necessary commodities.

The storm has forced the national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines to cancel 44 domestic and international flights on August 3, including all flights to and from the hard-hit city of Hai Phong .

The Committee for Flood Prevention and Control of all levels has closely directed people and vessels in affected localities to evacuate to safe shelters in order to minimise losses.

Earlier on August 2, Jebi landed in south China’s Hainan province, grounding flights and halting maritime traffic.-VNA