Unprecedented Heatwave Sweeps Through Northern and Central Vietnam
Vietnam’s northern and central regions are currently grappling with an extraordinary heatwave, marking the first severe temperature spike of the year. The National Center for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting has highlighted that certain areas might see the mercury soar to an astonishing 39°C on April 1.
This intense heatwave predominantly affects the north-western parts of the country, where daytime temperatures are predicted to reach between 37°C and 39°C. However, the scorching temperatures are not confined to these areas alone. Northern localities, encompassing Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, and the nation’s capital, Hanoi, are also under the grip of rising temperatures, with forecasts indicating a sharp increase to 35-37°C, potentially surpassing 37°C in certain spots.
The baking heat extends to the border provinces of Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and Ha Tinh in central Vietnam. These areas are bracing for the peak of the heatwave on April 1, expecting daytime temperatures to hover between 37°C and 39°C.
According to projections, this heatwave will persist in northeastern localities until April 4 and will continue to afflict northwestern and central regions until April 5. In contrast, southern Vietnam has been experiencing this sweltering heat for several weeks, with expectations for it to stretch into May.
A Scorching Summer Forecast Ahead
Meteorologists are sounding the alarm for a potentially hotter summer in 2024. They attribute the early onset and enhanced intensity of this year’s heatwaves to El Nino, although it is expected to wane and transition to a neutral state between April and June, eventually giving way to La Nina from July to September.
The entire country is bracing for an unusually hot April, with temperatures predicted to be 1-2°C above the long-term average. Dr. Hoang Phuc Lam, Deputy Director of the National Centre for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting, has cautioned that the summer of 2024 could potentially witness record-breaking temperatures. The shifting climatic conditions underscore the urgent need for preparedness and adaptive measures to mitigate the impact of severe heatwaves on the population and the environment.
As Vietnam contends with this early and intense heatwave, the phenomenon serves as a stark reminder of the broader impacts of climate change. It underscores the importance of global and local efforts to combat the rising temperatures and to safeguard communities against the increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves.
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