At a meeting in Hanoi on storm response measures, Deputy Prime Minister Ha, who is also Deputy Head of National Civil Defense Steering Committee, said Typhoon Bualoi is moving fast at 35-40km per hour and instead of weakening after exiting the Philippines, it continues to grow in intensity. 

The storm is expected to enter the East Sea (known internationally as South China Sea) and will affect Vietnam’s mainland. The storm is powerful, difficult to predict, especially since it moves along the coast, and must be treated as an emergency. 

Deputy Prime Minister Ha said: "The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and local authorities must identify affected areas and prepare detailed response plans. Media outlets must prioritize reporting on the storm on the TV and radio. Border guards and coast guards must also inform the people via phone and text messages."

The National Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control is responsible for inter-agency and inter-provincial coordination, Mr. Ha said. The military will serve as the key force and will work closely with local authorities in search and rescue operations.