

Hanoi's normally bustling streets turned eerily quiet Tuesday morning as Storm Wipha swept through northern Vietnam. Roads such as Truong Chinh, Nguyen Trai, and major intersections like Nga Tu So–Lang were largely empty, with only scattered tourists and residents braving the drizzle. Markets like Thinh Quang operated with minimal vendors, many lowering prices as business slowed, while companies encouraged employees to work from home.
Wipha made landfall between Hung Yen and Ninh Binh at around 10 a.m., bringing winds up to 88 kph and moving west‑southwest at 10–15 kph. Hanoi authorities issued urgent directives to limit movement, inspect vulnerable homes, and evacuate at‑risk areas. Around iconic sites such as the Opera House, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake, foot and vehicle traffic remained sparse despite brief breaks in the rain.
Rainfall measured 20–40 mm from Monday morning to Tuesday morning, with forecasts of continued heavy rain through Wednesday, possibly exceeding 100 mm in some districts. Officials warned of potential flooding, uprooted trees, and traffic disruptions as the capital braces for the storm's lingering effects.
Storm Wipha made landfall on Vietnam's northern coast Tuesday morning, unleashing winds of 64–102 kph with gusts up to 138 kph and causing heavy rain and flooding across several provinces. Thanh Hoa City saw streets submerged under 80 cm of water and tin roofs torn off homes, while Ninh Binh's coastal areas, including the Ruined Church site, were hit by 4–5 meter waves breaching barriers and flooding restaurants. Hai Phong's Do Son Beach also faced rising seas and strong waves, prompting authorities to close coastal routes and set up checkpoints.
Though Hanoi was not directly struck, the city prepared for late‑day thunderstorms as Wipha's cloud bands approached. Light rain and reduced traffic marked the morning, with many businesses opting for remote work. By mid‑afternoon, officials warned of potential severe weather, including strong gusts, lightning, and even tornadoes.