The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has issued warnings for severe weather across Vietnam, forecasting heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in the north and a persistent heatwave in central provinces through July 23. Northern mountainous areas face precipitation totals between 50mm and 100mm, with local peaks exceeding 200mm, while central temperatures are expected to peak above 37°C.
Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flood Risks in Northern Vietnam
Northern Vietnam is currently experiencing a period of intense instability. According to the NCHMF, mountainous and hilly regions are under alert for moderate to strong rains and thunderstorms. The agency warned that some areas could see more than 100mm of rain within a three-hour window, significantly increasing the risk of rapid flooding in lowland areas.
The weather patterns for the northern regions include:
- Northwest Vietnam: Cloudy skies with moderate to heavy rain. Minimum temperatures range from 23-26°C, while maximums stay between 31-34°C.
- Northeast Vietnam: Heavy rain in mountainous zones with some localized extreme intensity. Plains areas will see scattered showers at night and sunshine during the day.
- Hanoi: The capital expects occasional showers and thunderstorms with intermittent sunny periods. Highs will reach 33-35°C.
The NCHMF cautioned that these thunderstorms may be accompanied by tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong wind gusts, posing a threat to infrastructure and safety in high-altitude zones.
Central Vietnam Heatwave Forecast Through July 23
While the north battles floods, central Vietnam is facing a severe heatwave. The NCHMF reports that the region spanning from Nghe An to Da Nang City, as well as eastern parts of provinces from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak, is experiencing intense heat. Maximum temperatures in these areas generally range between 35°C and 37°C, with several locations recording peaks above 37°C.
The heatwave is characterized by low relative humidity, averaging between 50% and 55%. This peak heat typically persists from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM daily. According to the meteorological agency, this trend is expected to continue until approximately July 23, with temperatures beginning to moderate on July 24.
Regional Weather Breakdown
The current atmospheric conditions vary sharply across the country’s geography:
| Region | Expected Conditions | Temp Range (Max) |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest/Northeast | Moderate to heavy rain, risk of hail/tornadoes | 26-34°C |
| Thanh Hoa to Hue | Cloudy with intense heat; night showers | 34-37°C+ |
| South Central Coast | Sunny days, evening thunderstorms | 32-37°C+ |
| Central Highlands | Cloudy with afternoon showers | 27-30°C+ |
| Southern Vietnam/HCM City | Cloudy with scattered afternoon thunderstorms | 32-35°C |
Safety Precautions for Extreme Weather
Weather patterns remain volatile, and the NCHMF continues to update its forecasts as the heatwave in the center and the monsoon-driven rains in the north evolve over the coming week.