Unseasonal rains forecast for Ho Chi Minh City at Christmas

Over the next 24 hours, the equatorial low-ressure trough to the south is forecast to shift slightly northward, while upper-level easterly wind convergence strengthens and affects weather conditions across the southern region. The interaction of these two systems is driving the unusual rainfall expected during the Christmas period.

Across southern provinces and Ho Chi Minh City, weather conditions are expected to range from partly cloudy to overcast, with light morning mist in some locations.

Sunshine during the day will be intermittent, followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms in the late afternoon and evening.

Some areas may see moderate rain, while isolated locations could experience heavy downpours, particularly in the Mekong Delta.

Nighttime temperatures in southeastern provinces are forecast to range from 22 to 25 degrees Celsius, with some northern areas of the southeast dropping below 22 degrees.

In the Mekong Delta, overnight lows are expected at around 24 to 26 degrees Celsius.

Daytime highs across the southern region will generally range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius.

From 48 hours through the following seven days, a strengthening cold air mass is expected to spread southward.

Northeasterly winds of moderate to strong intensity will dominate coastal waters off southeastern Vietnam, while easterly wind disturbances are forecast to peak on Thursday before gradually weakening.

During this period, southern Vietnam is likely to see mostly sunny conditions during the day, followed by isolated showers and thunderstorms at night.

On Thursday in particular, moderate to heavy rain may occur in some locations during the afternoon and evening.

The weather agency warned of potential hazards during thunderstorms, including strong gusts, whirlwinds, and lightning.

It also cautioned that unseasonal rainfall could negatively affect flowers and ornamental plants grown for the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, known as Tet in Vietnam, as heavy rain may break branches, damage foliage, and reduce crop quality ahead of year-end markets.