Tropical Storm Wipha, which formed in the South China Sea between the Philippines and China, will bring the risk of flooding and locally damaging winds to the region in the coming days.
Further strengthening is not expected following the storm's initial landfall across China's Leizhou Peninsula on Thursday.
Wipha will now track west-northwestward near the coast of China's Guangxi province before tracking into northern Vietnam this weekend.
Locations from southeastern China into northern Vietnam and northern Laos will need to be on alert for potential flooding downpours and a heightened risk for mudslides.
Heavy rainfall will be the most widespread concern with Wipha as downpours can lead to flash flooding and mudslides. Total rainfall of 100-200 mm (4-8 inches) is expected across the region with an AccuWeather Local StormMax™ of 380 mm (15 inches).
Rough seas will also be stirred and create dangers for boaters and swimmers across the Gulf of Tonkin into Saturday.
Locally damaging winds are possible in locations near and just north of the storm's track. This risk will extend from southwestern Guangdong through the coast region of Guangxi and coastal locations of northeastern Vietnam.
Sustained winds of 65 km/h (40 mph) are possible with gusts of 80-95 km/h (50-60 mph) in these areas. Gusty winds are expected farther from the track of the storm across southeastern China and northern Vietnam with a minimal chance for any damage.
Hanoi is forecast to avoid Wipha's strongest winds, but the city and surrounding areas will be at risk for flooding rainfall from Friday night into early Sunday with additional downpours possible early next week. Mudslides and travel delays will also be a concern across the region.
