Unlike many winter cold spells that typically bring dry conditions, this surge is accompanied by persistent rain and high humidity, significantly intensifying the cold and creating a sharp, penetrating chill across large areas, particularly in mountainous and midland provinces of the north.

From early February 8, northeast monsoon winds combined with rainfall caused temperatures to drop rapidly in many localities. The Red River Delta experienced severe cold conditions from the afternoon, while mountainous areas entered extreme cold, with strong winds and prolonged rain making temperatures feel much lower than recorded readings.

Forecasters said February 9 is expected to be the coldest day of the spell, with daytime highs in much of the northern delta struggling to exceed 15°C. Overnight lows are forecast at 10–13°C in lowland areas, while mountainous regions may see temperatures fall to 7–10°C, and below 3°C in high-altitude areas, raising the risk of frost and sleet.

The rapid temperature drop, combined with rain and gusty winds, has made the cold spell feel harsher than typical dry winter conditions, with residents reporting an all-day biting chill rather than cold limited to nighttime and early morning hours.

The cold air mass has also affected the North Central region, including Thanh Hoa, Nghe An and Ha Tinh provinces, where temperatures began falling from the afternoon of February 8, accompanied by rain and occasional showers. Minimum temperatures in the region are forecast to range between 12 and 15°C.

Further south, from Ha Tinh to the central coastal region, the interaction between the cold air and upper-level easterly disturbances is expected to trigger widespread rainfall, with some areas seeing moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Authorities warned that rain occurring under low temperatures could disrupt daily activities and transportation, particularly in the lead-up to the Lunar New Year when travel demand is rising. Slippery roads, reduced visibility and prolonged exposure to cold pose health risks, especially for the elderly, children and outdoor workers.

Meteorologists noted that the combination of strong cold air, high humidity and rainfall is the key factor making this cold spell particularly uncomfortable, as wet cold tends to lower perceived temperatures throughout the day.

Residents in northern and north-central Vietnam have been advised to take precautions against cold-related health risks, limit outdoor exposure during periods of low temperatures, and remain alert to potential hazards such as frost, sleet, thunderstorms, lightning and strong gusts, especially in mountainous areas.

Strong cold spell grips northern Vietnam, frost and ice risk in mountains

VOV.VN - A strong cold air mass began affecting northern Vietnam from midday on February 7, bringing widespread cold conditions, with severe cold, frost and possible snowfall forecast for high mountain areas over the weekend, weather authorities said.