According to the National Centre for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting, at 1 pm on August 20, the centre of the tropical depression was located over the northern area of Hainan Island, China.
The strongest winds near the centre of the tropical depression were at level 6, or 39-49 kilometres per hour, with gusts up to level 8. It was moving mainly westwards at 5-10 kilometres per hour.
By 1 pm on August 21, the tropical depression is forecast to move west-north-west at 5-10 kilometres per hour and enter the Gulf of Tonkin. During this period, it may strengthen into a storm, with maximum winds of level 8 and gusts up to level 10.
The danger zone has been identified in the north-western waters of the northern East Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin, with a level 3 natural disaster risk warning.
Projected path of the tropical depression (Photo: NCHMF).
By 1 pm on August 22, the tropical depression is forecast to move slowly westwards at 3-5 kilometres per hour over the northern Gulf of Tonkin and may gradually weaken, with maximum winds of level 7 and gusts up to level 9.
Over the following 48 to 72 hours, it is expected to continue moving westwards at 3-5 kilometres per hour, maintaining intensity at level 6-7 with gusts up to level 9.
Under the influence of the tropical depression, the north-western waters of the northern East Sea will see level 6 winds, gusting to level 8, with waves 2-4 metres high and rough seas.
From late afternoon on August 20, winds in the Gulf of Tonkin are expected to strengthen gradually to level 6-7.
If the tropical depression strengthens into a storm, areas near its centre could see level 8 winds and gusts up to level 10, with waves 2.5-3.5 metres high and very rough seas.
The meteorological agency warned that vessels operating in dangerous waters could be affected by thunderstorms, whirlwinds, strong winds and high waves.