On the morning of June 11, 2025, the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting reported that a tropical depression in the East Sea had intensified into Storm No. 1, internationally named WUTIP. This development, combined with the Southwest monsoon, has triggered widespread heavy rainfall across Vietnam's Central Highlands, particularly affecting Gia Lai and Dak Lak provinces.
Gia Lai province is bracing for moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms from June 11 through the morning of June 13. Forecasts indicate total rainfall ranging from 60 to 120 millimeters in the western and central parts of the province, with some areas expected to receive over 160 millimeters. The eastern region of Gia Lai is predicted to experience 40 to 80 millimeters, with localized spots exceeding 100 millimeters. Such intense precipitation raises concerns about flooding in low-lying areas and the risk of landslides in steep, geologically vulnerable zones.
Indeed, the impact has already been felt. A section of the bypass road passing through Plei Lôk bridge in Doan Ket village, Ayun Ha commune, Phu Thien district, was deeply flooded, causing severe traffic congestion and completely isolating National Highway 25. Similarly, the Mo Nang dam in Mo Nang village, Kin Tan commune, Ia Pa district, was submerged, further disrupting transportation. The rising waters of rivers and streams, fueled by the storm and monsoon, have caused significant flooding and damage to crops in southeastern Gia Lai since the night of June 10.
In response, Gia Lai’s Provincial People's Committee issued urgent dispatch No. 1644/UBND-NNMT, mobilizing local authorities to closely monitor weather forecasts and warnings. They have been instructed to promptly inform all levels of government and residents to proactively prepare and minimize damage. Emergency teams have been deployed to inspect and clear waterways in flood-prone areas, organize evacuations of vulnerable populations, and establish safety zones. At critical points such as submerged crossings and areas with swift currents, personnel are stationed around the clock to prevent unsafe passage of people and vehicles.
The province is also safeguarding agricultural production, including rice, crops, and aquaculture, while ensuring the security of industrial zones, urban areas, and mining operations in vulnerable locations. The Department of Agriculture and Environment, acting as the Standing Office of the Provincial Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Search and Rescue, coordinates closely with dam and hydropower operators to monitor rainfall and reservoir levels. They carefully manage water discharge to protect infrastructure and downstream communities, especially focusing on vulnerable dams and ongoing construction projects. Resources and equipment are kept on standby for rapid response to emergencies.
Meanwhile, Dak Lak province is also preparing for widespread rainfall from the evening of June 11 through the early morning of June 13. Forecasts expect 20 to 50 millimeters of rain in most areas, with some locations potentially receiving 50 to 100 millimeters. Similar to Gia Lai, Dak Lak faces risks of flash floods on smaller rivers and streams, landslides on slopes, and flooding in low-lying zones.
On June 10, the Dak Lak Provincial People's Committee issued a directive urging all departments and localities to focus on responding to heavy rain, landslides, and flash floods. Officials emphasized the “4 on-site” principle—mobilizing local resources immediately to ensure swift and efficient disaster response. They stressed the importance of not being caught off guard or experiencing interruptions in disaster management, especially amid ongoing administrative restructuring.
Local authorities have been tasked with monitoring forecasts, disseminating timely warnings to communities, clearing blocked waterways, and preparing evacuation plans. They are also responsible for securing transportation routes, particularly at vulnerable crossings and flood-prone areas, by deploying personnel and equipment to maintain safe passage or enforce restrictions if necessary. Furthermore, inspections of critical infrastructure such as dams and flood control works are underway to guarantee their safety during the storm season.
To coordinate rescue and relief efforts, the Dak Lak Department of Agriculture and Environment has requested support from the provincial military command, border guard, and police forces. These agencies stand ready to assist with emergency response and recovery operations as conditions evolve. The department also guides agricultural producers on safeguarding crops, fisheries, and mineral extraction activities to minimize losses during adverse weather.
Amid these preparations, the Ministry of Health has issued a nationwide call to ensure uninterrupted medical services during the storm and rainy season, particularly as administrative and organizational changes take place. Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen signed a directive urging provincial health departments and hospitals under the ministry to maintain readiness. This includes having sufficient personnel, ambulances, medical equipment, medicines, and supplies to respond promptly to emergencies caused by storms and flooding.
The Ministry highlighted forecasts from the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting indicating that the ENSO phenomenon (El Nino and La Nina) is expected to remain neutral in 2025. This suggests a relatively average number of storms and tropical depressions—approximately five to six impacting the mainland. However, moderate to heavy rains are anticipated to occur frequently from June through August in northern, north-central, Central Highlands, and southern regions, with an increase in rainfall expected in the south from September onward.
Hospitals are instructed to maintain 24/7 communication lines with emergency response units and to ensure trauma care readiness. Health authorities must also assess and relocate medical facilities located in landslide-prone or flood-vulnerable areas. Additionally, they are tasked with managing environmental sanitation and disease prevention measures following floods to protect public health. The ministry’s approach aligns with the “4 on-site” principle, focusing on local capacity and rapid response to reduce the impact of natural disasters on communities.
These comprehensive efforts by provincial governments and the Ministry of Health reflect Vietnam’s commitment to proactively confronting the challenges posed by the 2025 rainy and storm season. By mobilizing resources, coordinating agencies, and prioritizing the safety of residents and infrastructure, authorities aim to mitigate the risks of flooding, landslides, and related hazards in the Central Highlands and beyond.
