Northern Vietnam braces for heavy rain and cooler weather amid late-season cold spell

Northern Vietnam and central provinces of Thanh Hoa and Nghe An are bracing for a significant cold spell and heavy rainfall starting June 8. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting predicts widespread moderate to heavy rain, with localized downpours exceeding 250mm in some areas, particularly in Lai Chau, Dien Bien, Lao Cai, and Son La. This weather event, caused by a late-season cold air mass interacting with upper-level wind convergence, is expected to bring much-needed relief from the intense summer heat.

The heavy rain and accompanying thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds pose a high risk of flash floods and landslides in mountainous regions. Low-lying areas and industrial zones are also vulnerable to flooding. Temperatures are forecast to drop by 5-6 degrees Celsius on June 9 and 10, offering a cooler respite. For instance, Hanoi is expected to see highs around 28-29 degrees Celsius and lows of 24-25 degrees Celsius.

Authorities are urging proactive measures to manage the potential impacts. The National Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control has called on provincial authorities to identify and evacuate residents from high-risk areas for flash floods and landslides. They are also to mobilize forces to clear blockages in waterways. Public communication channels are to be utilized to disseminate timely weather information and promote safety skills for dealing with heavy rain, flash floods, and landslides. Following this initial heavy rainfall, scattered showers are expected to continue in the north until around June 12, with a possibility of more localized heavy rain from June 13.