According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, satellite images, lightning detection data, and weather radar indicated strong convective cloud development over Phu Tho, gradually extending towards Hanoi. Some areas, including Vat Lai, My Duc, and Van Dinh, experienced thunderstorms starting that evening.

The meteorological agency predicted that within approximately 4 hours from 7:30 p.m., convective clouds would continue to develop, causing showers and thunderstorms in these areas before spreading to many other wards and communes of Hanoi. During the storms, whirlwinds, lightning, hail, and strong gusts were possible.

Thunderstorm clouds developing west of Hanoi, late afternoon 27/5. Photo: Gia Chinh.

Previously, starting from the afternoon of 27/5, many northern localities recorded widespread thunderstorms. Some areas received significant rainfall, such as Son La with approximately 30 mm, Tan Minh (Phu Tho) with nearly 50 mm, and Cam Lien (Thanh Hoa) with 37 mm.

The rain followed an intense heatwave across the northern and central regions. On 27/5, the Northern region, the area from Thanh Hoa to Da Nang, and the eastern parts of provinces from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak experienced exceptionally severe heat in some places.

Specifically, the Northern Delta, Phu Tho, and the Northern Central region recorded common temperatures of 38-40 degrees Celsius, with many locations exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, including Lang (Hanoi) at 40,5 degrees Celsius, Con Cuong (Nghe An) at 41,2 degrees Celsius, Huong Khe (Ha Tinh) at 40,5 degrees Celsius, and Hoi Xuan (Thanh Hoa) at 40,2 degrees Celsius. Commonly low humidity, 45-50%, intensified the oppressive feeling.

According to forecasts, on 28/5, the heatwave in the Northern region will decrease in intensity, with highest temperatures commonly 35-37 degrees Celsius, and some places above 38 degrees Celsius. From 29/5, the widespread heatwave will essentially end in the Northern region and Northern Central region.

Meanwhile, the area from Thanh Hoa to Hue will maintain intense heat on 28/5, with common temperatures of 37-39 degrees Celsius, and some places above 39 degrees Celsius. The South Central Coast will see temperatures ranging from 36-38 degrees Celsius.

The meteorological agency predicted that from 30/5, the widespread heatwave would also end in the area from Quang Tri to Da Nang and the eastern parts of provinces from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak.

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting noted that actual outdoor temperatures could be 2-4 degrees Celsius higher than those measured in weather shelters, especially in areas with significant concrete and asphalt roads. Prolonged heat combined with low humidity increases the risk of explosions, forest fires, and health impacts due to dehydration and heatstroke.

Gia Chinh