Northern and central Vietnam brace for scorching heatwave as temperatures top 40 C

Under the influence of a wind convergence zone active at altitudes of 1,500 to 5,000 meters, northern provinces have experienced frequent showers and thunderstorms lately. Mountainous areas and the northeastern region recorded heavy rainfall in several locations, causing localized flooding.

However, rain in northern Vietnam is expected to rapidly decrease starting today as a western low-pressure hot zone develops.

Northern and central forecasts

From May 23 to 27, the northern region is likely to face widespread heat. According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, temperatures will commonly range from 36 C to 39 C, exceeding 39 C in some places.

Meteorologists noted that this heatwave could be more intense than the previous spell recorded from May 13 to 16. During that period, temperatures in northern Vietnam generally ranged from 36 C to 38 C, with the highest recorded in Ninh Binh Province’s Nho Quan District at 38.7 C.

The U.S.-based weather service AccuWeather forecasts Hanoi’s temperature at 27 C to 33 C on Wednesday, gradually rising to between 28 C and 40 C by the weekend. High-altitude areas above 1,500 meters, such as Sa Pa in Lao Cai Province, are expected to see more comfortable highs of around 25 C.

Central Vietnam could experience the heat earlier, starting May 22 and lasting until around May 28. Temperatures are forecast to range from 38 C to 40 C, with some locations exceeding 40 C. Western mountainous areas may face exceptionally severe conditions.

During the mid-May heatwave, central Vietnam recorded temperatures of 37 C to 39 C, with Gia Lai Province’s Son Hoa District reaching a peak of 39.7 C.

June outlook

Weather authorities indicated this upcoming stretch could be the last major heatwave of May.

From June onward, Vietnam may experience another two to three heatwaves nationwide. Temperatures will commonly sit between 37 C and 39 C, potentially reaching 41 C to 42 C in some areas, particularly in the western mountainous regions stretching from Thanh Hoa Province to Hue.

Average nationwide temperatures in June are forecast to be 0.5 C to 1 C higher than the multi-year average.

Meteorologists warned that prolonged heat could significantly increase the risk of heatstroke, heat-related illnesses, forest fires, residential fires, and localized water shortages. The combination of high temperatures and low humidity may severely affect the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.

Authorities also cautioned that heatwaves are often followed by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds. These extreme shifts are typically caused by clashes between hot air masses and weakening late-season cold air. Residents are strongly advised to take precautions against the heat, use electricity safely, and closely monitor local weather forecasts.