Compared to the major storms of 2020 – a year in which Central Vietnam experienced a series of consecutive storms, including storm No. 9 (Molave) recorded as the strongest in the past 20 years – this year’s Tra My storm, although not reaching such extreme intensity, still caused significant damage and had notable points regarding the scope of influence and level of damage.

Specific comparison with storms in 2020:

Intensity and wind speed: Storm Tra My was less intense than storm No. 9 in 2020, but its impact was wider and caused prolonged heavy rain, especially in the Central and mountainous regions, posing a high risk of flash floods and landslides.

Extent of damage: Although not as severe as storm Molave, storm Tra My still had a major impact, especially in areas that had not fully recovered from the 2020 natural disaster. Many houses, traffic works and power grids were damaged. Compared to 2020, the works were more carefully prepared, but some low-lying areas still suffered heavy damage.

Response and preparedness: Localities have learned from 2020, strengthening early warning and evacuation work. However, the unusual and complicated developments of storm Tra My still create difficulties in response, especially in areas with rugged terrain and weak infrastructure.

Damage characteristics in mountainous and coastal areas: Similar to 2020, mountainous and coastal areas are hotspots for damage. The prolonged rainstorm caused by Typhoon Tra My continued to cause landslides and flash floods, affecting people’s lives and livelihoods.

Overall, compared to the series of severe storms in 2020, Typhoon Tra My, although less intense, still caused great damage due to vulnerable terrain and the resilience of structures that have not been fully improved. This shows that long-term response preparation still needs to be a top priority to ensure people’s safety.