Cao Duc Phat, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development has instructed local authorities to thoroughly inspect all irrigation works and reservoirs before the onset of the storm season to ensure safety and strength in coping with the expected flooding this year.
Provinces and cities authorities have been asked to examine the current status of irrigation works and reservoirs in their localities, and detect any faults or problems.
Authorities should speed up progress on all repair and construction of reservoirs by May 15 in the northern, central northern, southeastern and central highland regions; and by August 30 in coastal areas of the central southern region and the Mekong Delta.
Necessary equipment, material and human resources should be prepared and be ready well in advance to face any possible natural disasters or such eventualities.
According to the ministry, about six to seven storms and tropical depressions are expected to affect Vietnam this year, which might occur earlier than their seasonal time. This year, the rainfall is forecast to be much higher than normal.
In related news, the National Hydro Meteorological Forecasting Centre on Thursday said that a cold front is moving towards northern Vietnam.
As a result the weather will become colder in the northern and northern central regions from today, March 23. The cold front will then move south, affecting the central region.
Some parts of the southern region will see showers and thunderstorms.
