Today, 24/5, the northern and central regions entered the third day of May's most intense heatwave. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting reported that at 13h, stations in Vinh Yen (Phu Tho), Bac Ninh, and Lang (Ha Noi) all recorded 38,8 degrees Celsius.
This temperature was measured in a standard meteorological shelter at two meters. The actual outdoor perceived temperature could be two to four degrees Celsius higher, or even more in urban areas where concrete and asphalt absorb heat. Humidity commonly ranged from 40-50%, making the weather more oppressive.
Forecaster Nguyen Thi Hue from the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting indicated that the heatwave in the northern region will persist until 27-28/5. Specifically, on 25-26/5, the northern region is expected to continue experiencing temperatures of 36-38 degrees Celsius, with some areas exceeding 39 degrees. Ha Noi, influenced by the urban heat island effect, will see peak temperatures of 37-39 degrees Celsius, with some locations potentially facing exceptionally severe heat above 39 degrees.
Hue noted that the widespread heatwave in the northern region is likely to conclude from 28/5, as changing weather patterns create conditions for thunderstorms.
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Ha Noi residents commute under the scorching heat, midday 24/5. *Photo: Gia Chinh* |
Meanwhile, the central region remains the hottest area nationwide. At 13h today, Ha Tinh recorded 38,8 degrees, Vinh (Nghe An) 38,6 degrees, and Ba Don (Quang Tri) and Quang Ngai both reached 38,4 degrees Celsius.
Over the next two days, the area from Thanh Hoa to Da Nang and eastern Quang Ngai will commonly experience peak temperatures of 38-40 degrees Celsius, with some areas exceeding 40 degrees. The heat will last from approximately 9h to 18h daily. Southern Central Coast provinces will be cooler, commonly 36-38 degrees Celsius.
The heatwave in the central region is forecast to last until approximately 28/5 and gradually subside from 29/5, about one day later than in the northern region.
Beyond the northern and central regions, eastern areas of provinces from Gia Lai to Lam Dong will also experience widespread heat, with peak temperatures commonly reaching 36-38 degrees Celsius, and some areas above 39 degrees. The southeastern region will continue to face temperatures of 35-36 degrees Celsius, with some areas exceeding 36 degrees.
Meteorological agencies warn that severe heat combined with low humidity increases the risk of fires and explosions in residential areas due to higher electricity demand, and also raises the risk of forest fires. Residents working or engaging in prolonged outdoor activities should hydrate and limit direct exposure to the heat during peak hours to avoid exhaustion and heatstroke.
For detailed temperatures over the next seven days, click here.
Gia Chinh
