HCMC - HCMC and southern Vietnam are expected to experience continued hot weather on May 23, while scattered thunderstorms and localized severe weather risks remain in place across several regions, according to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.

HCMC is forecast to record temperatures of 35-36 degrees Celsius, with some areas exceeding 36 degrees Celsius. The city is expected to see scattered showers and thunderstorms in the late afternoon and evening. Across southern Vietnam, daytime temperatures are forecast at 33-35 degrees Celsius, rising to 35-36 degrees Celsius and above 36 degrees Celsius in parts of the southeastern region. Scattered rain and thunderstorms are expected later in the day. The Central Highlands will remain mostly sunny, with temperatures of 31-34 degrees Celsius and isolated locations above 35 degrees Celsius. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast in the afternoon and evening. In northern Vietnam, hot weather will continue during the day, with temperatures reaching 34-37 degrees Celsius and exceeding 37 degrees Celsius in some areas. The weather agency warned of flash floods on small rivers and streams and landslides on steep slopes, particularly in mountainous areas with weak soil conditions. Central Vietnam, including the area from Thanh Hoa to Danang and parts of the south-central coast, is expected to experience heatwave conditions, with temperatures of 35-38 degrees Celsius and some locations exceeding 38 degrees Celsius. Isolated showers and thunderstorms are forecast in the evening and at night. The weather agency warned that thunderstorms nationwide could be accompanied by whirlwinds, lightning, hail and strong winds, affecting transportation, agricultural production and daily activities. Residents were advised to monitor weather updates and take preventive measures against weather-related risks.