(VOVworld) – A tropical storm has dumped heavy rain onto central provinces, causing landslides in the mountain and coastal areas.

The storm is forecast to hit Vietnam's central provinces. (Photo: the National Hydro Meteorological Forecasting Center)

Quang Ngai province bore a heavy downpour on Tuesday and landslides on Wednesday, resulting in traffic congestion in several mountainous districts and leaving several hamlets isolated. The Sa Ky port border station in Son Tinh district issued a ban on offshore operations and informed fishermen to find shelter. Bui Van Hung, Deputy Head of the Sa Ky port border station, said: "Border guards and local authorities have prepared safe mooring areas for boats to shelter in the storm and avoid collision. We are cooperating with local police to ensure security at the anchorages."

In Quang Binh province, the Border Guard Command has guided vessels operating offshore out of storm-affected area. Several reservoirs have discharged water for flood control. Nguyen Ngoc Phung, Director of the Quang Binh provincial Steering Committee for Flood and Storm Prevention and Control, told us: "We have strictly followed the diplomatic memo sent from the national committee to control vessels going offshore and put the rescue forces in a state of readiness to promptly provide services when necessary. We have assigned our officials to closely watch the storm’s development. Large-capacity fishing boats have already anchored ashore."