Heatwave expected to intensify in Vietnam, with highs likely to exceed 40°C

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, hot conditions have intensified across large areas over the past several days, with the heatwave expected to expand further on Monday.

In the northern region and eastern areas of provinces from Gia Lai to Lam Dong in the Central Highlands, hot to very hot conditions are forecast for the day, with some areas likely to experience extreme heat.

Maximum temperatures are expected to range from 36 to 38 degrees Celsius, with some locations exceeding 39 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, from north-central Thanh Hoa Province to Da Nang City and the eastern part of Quang Ngai Province in central Vietnam, hot to extremely hot conditions are expected, with peak temperatures ranging from 38 to 40 degrees Celsius and some areas surpassing 40 degrees Celsius.

Southern Vietnam, including the Mekong Delta and southeastern provinces, will continue to experience hot weather, with highs of around 35–36 degrees Celsius.

Meteorological experts said the heatwave is likely to persist until around May 27-28 in the northern region, around May 28 in central Vietnam, and through May 27 in southern localities, according to Nguoi Lao Dong (Laborer) newspaper.

Officials warned that the combination of prolonged high temperatures and low humidity significantly increases the risk of fires and explosions in residential areas due to rising electricity demand, as well as forest fires in affected regions.

They also noted that forecast temperatures in official reports may differ from actual outdoor ‘feels-like’ conditions by two to four degrees Celsius or more, depending on surface conditions such as concrete and asphalt, which can intensify heat exposure.

Prolonged exposure to extreme heat may lead to dehydration and other heat-related health issues.

People in affected areas are advised to take appropriate precautions, use adequate sun protection, and stay hydrated to reduce the risk of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.