Meteorologists classified the event as a Mesoscale Convective System (MCS), a sprawling complex of thunderstorms that can span hundreds of km and persist for up to 24 hours.
The system brought heavy downpours, lightning, strong gusts, and scattered whirlwinds to the region. The circulation of typhoon Wipha had not yet directly affected the Gulf of Tonkin area.
The identities of 31 out of the 35 deceased have been confirmed. The four still missing are: Hoang Van Thai (born 1985), Hoang Viet Hung (born 1979), Hoang Thi Quyen (born 1975), and Nguyen Duy Khai Phong (born 2019).
Search efforts have been expanded by about 9km and divided into several units, with a strong commitment to finding all the missing victims.
Quang Ninh authorities have since ordered a maritime suspension, banning vessels from departing ports in preparation for Typhoon Wipha.
Accordingly, from July 20, all tourist boats operating in Hạ Long Bay, Quảng Ninh Province, as well as passenger transport vessels on island routes and between islands, will temporarily cease receiving port departure permits to ensure the absolute safety of passengers, crew, and vessels.
In the immediate aftermath, the province has provided financial support for victims, including VNĐ25 million (approx. US$995) per deceased for funeral expenses, and VNĐ5 million per injured survivor. The province is also covering all accommodation and meal costs for victims’ families staying in Quang Ninh.
Currently, 22 hotels in Ha Long are offering free rooms and meals to relatives of the victims who have travelled to the province to identify and search for their loved ones.
By Sunday morning, authorities had completed the necessary procedures and handed over the bodies of 30 deceased victims to their families for transport home for burial. Quảng Ninh Province provided financial assistance and transport for the families to bring their loved ones back to their hometowns.
Viet Nam News
Asia News Network