Heavy rainfall forecasts for central Vietnam remain uncertain as low-pressure system may strengthen
The extent and intensity of heavy rain in central Vietnam remain uncertain in the upcoming days as a low-pressure system over the East Vietnam Sea could change its track and strength, the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting said on Thursday.
Rain and thunderstorms are forecast to affect Vietnam on September 11, 2026. Photo: Quang Dinh / Tuoi Tre
The weather agency said there is an 80-percent chance the system will strengthen into a tropical depression over the central East Vietnam Sea within the next one to two days, and a 30-40 percent chance it could become the sixth storm to form over the maritime area this year.
The agency warned that changes in the system’s track and intensity could significantly affect rainfall across central Vietnam in the coming days.
On Friday, moderate to heavy rain is expected from southern Nghe An Province to Da Nang and in eastern Quang Ngai Province, as well as the northern Central Highlands, with rainfall reaching 30-60 mm and locally exceeding 100 mm.
The southern Central Highlands and southern Vietnam are forecast to see moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms, with rainfall of 40-70 mm and isolated areas receiving more than 120 mm.
Thunderstorm clouds cover the East Vietnam Sea and mainland Vietnam under the influence of cold air, the southwest monsoon, an intertropical convergence zone and a low-pressure system over the central East Vietnam Sea. Photo: Zoom Earth
From Friday night through Saturday, areas from Ha Tinh to Da Nang and in eastern Quang Ngai will possibly receive rainfall of 40-80 mm, with localized totals exceeding 150 mm.
The Central Highlands and southern Vietnam will continue to experience moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms, with precipitation of 30-60 mm and localized downpours surpassing 100 mm.
Forecasters expect heavier rain between Saturday night and Sunday, with 50-100 mm from Quang Tri to Da Nang and eastern Quang Ngai, and up to 200 mm in some areas.
Between September 14 and 17, widespread heavy rain is likely to continue in central Vietnam under the influence of a tropical convergence zone, raising risks of flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding.
Local authorities and residents are urged to monitor updates closely and prepare for possible evacuations.
Unstable weather affects much of Vietnam
Vietnam is experiencing unfavorable weather conditions today as cold air, the intertropical convergence zone, and other weather systems combine to produce widespread rain and thunderstorms.
Rainfall could exceed 100mm within three hours in some locations.
Northern Vietnam, Thanh Hoa, and northern Nghe An may also experience scattered showers and thunderstorms, with rainfall of 10-30 mm and localized totals above 50 mm.
Meanwhile, eastern areas from Gia Lai to Lam Dong will receive 20-40 mm of rain, with isolated areas recording more than 70 mm.
Thunderstorms could bring lightning, hail, and strong wind gusts, potentially damaging crops, trees, homes, roads, and other infrastructure.
Heavy downpours could trigger flash floods on small rivers and streams, landslides on steep slopes, and flooding in low-lying areas.
Strong winds, gusts, and high waves could also disrupt maritime activities and endanger vessels.
Minh Duy - Chi Tue - Le Phan / Tuoi Tre News