Hanoi residents swim in river to beat intense heat

As Hanoi swelters under a relentless heatwave, with outdoor temperatures soaring above 37 degrees Celsius, residents are seeking refuge in the cool waters of the Duong River. The sight of people swimming and cooling off near the Dong Tru bridge has become common, offering a natural escape from the oppressive summer heat.

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In summer, I often choose to swim in the river because it feels close to nature and makes the body feel more comfortable.

For many, like Nguyen Thi Thu, swimming in the river is a cherished summer ritual, providing a sense of connection with nature and much-needed relief. However, she emphasizes the importance of safety, urging swimmers to equip themselves with life vests and goggles and to be acutely aware of the river's currents and potential underwater hazards. "Beginners should thoroughly research the terrain and warm up properly before swimming," Thu advises. "Enter the water slowly, do not jump from the bank, as there may be sharp rocks or dangerous obstacles underwater."

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Beginners should thoroughly research the terrain and warm up properly before swimming. Enter the water slowly, do not jump from the bank, as there may be sharp rocks or dangerous obstacles underwater.

Anh Nguyen Thiet Son echoes these safety concerns, highlighting the risks associated with river swimming for the inexperienced. He recommends acclimatizing to the water temperature to prevent shock and consistently monitoring the currents to choose a safe area. The national meteorological center forecasts continued hot weather for Hanoi, with a chance of rain in the late afternoon and evening, maintaining daytime temperatures between 35-37 degrees Celsius.

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River swimming has many risks if you lack skills. Swimmers should get used to the water temperature before entering to avoid heat shock, while always observing the current and choosing a safe area.