At 7a.m., the storm’s centre was located over waters east of Luzon Island in the Philippines, packing sustained winds of 62-88 km per hour, according to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF).

The storm was moving west-northwest at approximately 20-25 kph and is forecast to continue strengthening while crossing warm ocean waters under favourable atmospheric conditions.

Forecast models from Vietnam and international weather agencies broadly agreed that Noul is likely to pass north of the Philippines before entering the eastern part of the East Sea within the next 24 to 48 hours.

However, meteorologists cautioned that the storm’s subsequent track is uncertain because it will be influenced by several large-scale weather systems, including the subtropical ridge and the southwest monsoon.

The meteorological agency warned that vessels operating within the storm's projected path face significant risks from thunderstorms, strong winds and high waves. They urged fishermen and maritime operators to closely follow official forecasts and seek shelter when necessary.

Despite the high probability that Noul will enter the East Sea, it is still too early to determine whether it will make landfall in Vietnam.

Some forecast scenarios suggested the system could move westward toward northern Vietnam and the north-central coast, while others indicate it may recurve toward southern China or weaken over open waters.

Coastal localities were advised to continue monitoring official updates over the coming days.

Even as tropical storm Noul approaches, northern Vietnam is already experiencing widespread heavy rainfall associated with existing weather systems.

Nguyen Van Huong, head of the Weather Forecast Department at the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, said many northern provinces, including Tuyen Quang, Phu Tho, Lai Chau, Dien Bien and Son La, recorded moderate to heavy rain overnight into the morning of July 24.

Rainfall generally ranged between 30 mm and 70 mm, with several locations exceeding 00 mm.

Meteorologists expected northern Vietnam to receive another 40-100mm of rainfall through July 25, with some areas potentially recording more than 200mm.

Prolonged rainfall will significantly increase the risk of flash floods, landslides in mountainous areas and urban flooding in low-lying districts.

Tropical depression east of Philippines forecast to become storm within 24 hours

VOV.VN - A tropical depression off the eastern coast of the Philippines has intensified and is expected to develop into a tropical storm within the next 24 hours before entering the northeastern North East Sea, with forecast winds of force 10-11 (89-117 km/h) and gusts up to force 13 (up to 149 km/h).