Provinces in the northern region are ramping up emergency measures as Typhoon Matmo, the 11th storm to hit the East Sea this year, continues to strengthen on its way towards the mainland.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has ordered urgent measures to overcome the consequences of heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides triggered by Typhoon Bualoi – the 10th storm to hit the East Sea/South China Sea this year – which has caused severe human and material losses across northern and central provinces.