Vietnam braces for intense rains after heatwave, 18 provinces on alert

Vietnam is bracing for a significant shift in weather as intense heat gives way to torrential rains, particularly in the northern and north-central regions. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has issued a stark warning about extreme rainfall, predicting amounts exceeding 100 mm within a three-hour period.

The forecast indicates that these heavy downpours will occur on June 8 and 9, following a prolonged spell of intense heat across the country. Northern regions have been experiencing temperatures as high as 36-38°C, with some areas even surpassing 38°C. The heat is expected to lessen slightly on June 8, but severe heat conditions will persist in some northern plains and southern Phu Tho.

Central Vietnam will also see widespread heat, with Thanh Hoa to Quang Tri provinces facing temperatures of 36-38°C, and some areas exceeding 39°C. Cities like Hue and Da Nang, and eastern provinces from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak, will experience even more intense heat, with temperatures ranging from 37-39°C, and some locations reaching over 40°C. The heat is predicted to subside in the north from June 9 and gradually ease in the central region.

These heavy rains, driven by the tail end of the cold season, pose significant risks. Authorities have alerted 18 northern provinces and two central provinces, Thanh Hoa and Nghe An, to prepare for potential consequences. These include flash floods in low-lying areas and urban centers, landslides on steep slopes, and severe weather phenomena such as lightning, hail, and strong winds during thunderstorms. The National Committee for Disaster Prevention and Control has urged local governments to disseminate timely information, evacuate residents from high-risk zones, clear blockages in waterways, and mobilize local forces for immediate response and recovery efforts.