Vietnam Warns of Heavy Rain Across 15 Northern Provinces

Heavy rainfall is expected to intensify across 15 northern Vietnamese provinces, beginning tonight and continuing through August 21, according to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting. The downpours are predicted to bring moderate to heavy rain, with some areas potentially exceeding 200 mm, and the total rainfall for the entire period could reach over 450 mm in certain locations.

Recent rainfall data shows significant accumulation, with Nậm Khao in Lai Châu province receiving 156 mm between 7 p.m. on August 16 and 3 a.m. on August 17. Other areas like Trúc Tay in Bắc Ninh and Vân Đình in Hà Nội also experienced substantial rain during the same period.

The forecast indicates that northern regions, as well as areas from Thanh Hóa to Hà Tĩnh, will experience moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms. The intensity of the rain, with potential for over 100 mm within a 3-hour span, raises concerns about localized flooding in low-lying areas, urban centers, and industrial zones. Central Highlands and southern regions are also expected to receive scattered showers and thunderstorms.

Specifically, the Việt Bắc region (Lào Cai, Tuyên Quang, Phú Thọ) anticipates moderate to heavy rain, with some places possibly exceeding 100 mm. The Tây Bắc region (Lai Châu, Điện Biên, Sơn La) is also forecast to receive moderate to very heavy rain. Eastern provinces like Lạng Sơn and Bắc Ninh will see moderate rain, while the northern delta region, including Hà Nội, is expected to experience increased rainfall. The cumulative rainfall from August 17 to August 21 is projected to be between 150-300 mm, with some areas receiving over 450 mm, posing a risk of floods and landslides.