Hanoi (VNA) - Between seven and nine storms and tropical depressionsare forecast to hit the East Sea, of which up to four will directly affect Vietnam'smainland, from now until the end of 2021.

Provinces and cities in the central and south-central regions need to preparefor heavy rain in October, November and the first half of December, however,there is little chance of particularly heavy downpours like in 2020, Nguyen VanHuong, head of the Climate Forecasting Department, said on August 19.

Huong also said this cold weather will likely occur earlier, from the end ofSeptember and the beginning of October.

Severe cold spells may occur around mid-December, while in previous years, theyappeared in the last days of December.

The centre predicted that in September, floods will occur downstream of majorrivers in the north-central region.

On small rivers and streams, in the central region and Central Highlands, thereis a possibility of flash floods and landslides.

Northern mountainous areas are also warned of flooding and landslides.

Huong said provinces and cities should review the safety of houses and prepareplans for natural disasters.

Local authorities should coordinate with agencies, especially at the grassrootslevel, to prepare to relocate households out of areas at risk of landslides andflash floods.

The cities and provinces should strengthen grassroots rescue teams ready for helpingresidents relocate./.