Northern Vietnam Faces Heavy Rain, Central Region Endures Heatwave

Northern Vietnam is bracing for continued heavy rainfall, with forecasts predicting moderate to heavy downpours and thunderstorms from July 19 to July 20. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting indicates that mountainous areas, midlands, and Quảng Ninh province could see rainfall ranging from 40 to 80 mm, with isolated areas experiencing over 200 mm.

The intensity of the rain, with potential for over 100 mm within a 3-hour period, raises concerns about flash floods and landslides in the northern mountainous and midland regions. Low-lying areas and urban centers along rivers are also at risk of flooding. The forecast also warns of a potential flood surge on rivers in the North, with water levels expected to rise significantly, possibly exceeding alert levels in some smaller rivers.

In stark contrast, Central Vietnam is experiencing a severe heatwave. On July 19, temperatures in several central locations surpassed 38 degrees Celsius, with Tam Kỳ in Quảng Ngãi reaching 39.4 degrees Celsius. The heat is expected to persist through July 21, with temperatures commonly reaching 35-37 degrees Celsius, and potentially higher in some areas, accompanied by low humidity. The heatwave is forecast to gradually subside from July 22.