Ho Chi Minh City, southern provinces brace for prolonged 37 C heatwave in April

According to the Southern Regional Hydrometeorological Center, the region is currently gripped by a heatwave that shows little sign of relenting.

Localities including Ho Chi Minh City and its neighbor Dong Nai are expected to bear the brunt of the conditions, with many areas likely to experience severe heat.

Daily maximums are projected to hover between 35 C and 37 C, though localized peaks will frequently exceed the 37 C mark in coming days.

Accompanying the high temperatures is a significant drop in moisture, with relative humidity expected to fluctuate between a dry 30% and 45%. Residents are advised that the most intense period of heat typically occurs between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily.

Meteorologists attribute this extreme weather to a weakening continental high-pressure system shifting eastward, paired with the southeastward expansion of a western low-pressure heat zone. This is further complicated by a low-pressure trough at northern latitudes and a stable subtropical high-pressure system at higher altitudes, which has effectively stalled wind movement over southern waters.

The forecast for the next three to five days suggests no immediate relief. Widespread heat will persist across the southeast, while parts of the Mekong Delta are also expected to see a spike in temperatures. Maximums will remain locked in the 35 C to 37 C range for the foreseeable future.

International forecasts align with local warnings.

Data from Accuweather indicates that Ho Chi Minh City will maintain highs of 35 C to 37 C throughout the coming week, with the mercury specifically expected to hit 37 C next Saturday, April 11.

Local authorities have issued warnings regarding the increased risk of residential and forest fires due to the combination of intense heat and low humidity. On a personal health level, prolonged exposure to these conditions poses a serious risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.