Northern Vietnam swelters under 40-degree heat for two more days before rain

Northern and Central Vietnam are sweltering under a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius and above. The oppressive heat, described as stifling and suffocating, has persisted for days, with official meteorological data showing many areas exceeding the 40-degree mark. Vĩnh Yên in Phú Thọ province recorded the highest temperature at 40.8 degrees Celsius, followed closely by Láng in Hanoi and other locations in Thanh Hóa and Bắc Ninh.

The heat is so intense that road surfaces in Hanoi have registered temperatures above 50 degrees Celsius. Even after sunset, the lingering heat radiating from the ground and air continues to make conditions unbearable for residents. Officials attribute the extreme weather to the influence of a hot low-pressure system and the 'Lào' or Föhn wind, which brings dry, hot air and intensifies radiation.

Forecasters predict the heatwave will continue for at least two more days with similar or even greater intensity. Authorities are urging the public to limit direct sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to avoid heatstroke and dehydration. They also advise staying hydrated, using protective clothing, and avoiding sudden temperature changes between outdoor and indoor environments.

A reprieve is expected by the evening of May 27th, when scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast for northern Vietnam, offering a cooling effect. The heatwave is anticipated to end in the north by May 28th, while central Vietnam may see temperatures gradually decrease from May 29th.