Starting around 6h on 17/4, thunderstorm cells formed and quickly covered Thai Nguyen, Phu Tho, and Bac Ninh provinces, darkening the sky. In Thai Nguyen, heavy rain fell in Dong Hy, Dai Phuc, Nam Hoa, and Phu Luong, with common rainfall amounts above 60 mm. Dong Hy specifically recorded over 80 mm.
These thunderstorms, accompanied by strong winds, caused a tree at the Hung Son 3 intersection in Dai Phuc commune to fall on a 60-year-old woman selling goods, resulting in her death. Many roads, including national highway 37, Hoang Van Thu, and Luong Ngoc Quyen, flooded 10-30 cm deep, causing traffic congestion.
In other localities, high rainfall amounts were recorded: Thai Binh (Tuyen Quang) received 80 mm, Yen Son 71 mm; Van Lang (Phu Tho) 70 mm, and Dao Tru 52 mm.
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8h23 on 17/4 in Bac Giang ward, Bac Ninh province. Photo: Kun Mon. |
8h23 on 17/4 in Bac Giang ward, Bac Ninh province. Photo: Kun Mon.
According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, satellite and radar images show convective cloud bands from the northwest moving towards Hanoi. These clouds are passing through Trung Gia, Noi Bai, and Soc Son, and tend to expand towards the east-southeast.
In the next 15 minutes to three hours, these areas will experience showers and thunderstorms. Following this, the cloud bands may spread into inner Hanoi and surrounding areas. During the thunderstorms, there is a possibility of whirlwinds, lightning, hail, and strong gusts.
The meteorological agency stated that from the night of 16/4 to 17/4, northern and North Central regions experienced rain and moderate rain, with some localized areas receiving over 100 mm. This was due to the influence of a weak cold air mass compressing a low-pressure trough combined with high-altitude wind convergence. From 17/4, northern Vietnam will experience cooler weather.
Experts indicate that thunderstorm and whirlwind forecasts are currently only issued 30 minutes to three hours in advance, with an accuracy of approximately 70-90%. Residents are advised to closely monitor weather reports, limit outdoor activities during thunderstorms, and proactively protect their homes and property.
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The sky over Bac Ninh province at 8h20. Photo: Do Nhung. |
The sky over Bac Ninh province at 8h20. Photo: Do Nhung.
The Department of Dyke Management and Disaster Prevention and Control urged residents to reinforce corrugated iron roofs and temporary structures, trim trees, and check electrical systems. During thunderstorms and whirlwinds, individuals should stay indoors in sturdy buildings, stay away from glass windows, avoid seeking shelter under large trees or in open areas, and limit the use of electrical equipment.
In case of hail, residents should find safe shelter, prioritize personal safety, and stay away from weak corrugated iron roofs and fragile materials. After the thunderstorms, check electrical systems, and be wary of broken power lines, fallen trees, and areas at risk of landslides.
Gia Chinh
