Along the banks of the Perfume River, a different rhythm of life unfolds. Beneath shaded trees, locals string up hammocks to rest through the midday heat, waiting for cooler hours before resuming work.

“People come here to escape the heat. Around noon, they hang hammocks to rest, then return to work in the early afternoon,” said Nguyen Van Quyen, a resident of Phu Xuan ward. “It’s cooler here thanks to the trees.”

Inside homes, many families keep doors shut and run fans and air conditioners at full capacity, yet the oppressive heat persists. Local health facilities have reported an increase in patients, particularly among the elderly and children, as families limit outdoor activities to avoid heat-related illnesses.

“The heat is affecting children and older people the most,” said Nguyen Thanh Tuan, a local resident. “Kids are eating less and staying indoors. Even with air conditioning, parents remain concerned about their health.”

Outdoor workers and farmers adapt to rising temperatures

The extreme heat has placed significant strain on outdoor workers, including ride-hailing drivers, cyclo operators and construction laborers. Many have adjusted their schedules, starting work earlier in the morning and taking extended midday breaks to avoid peak temperatures.

At construction sites, workers are forced to pause frequently to prevent heatstroke, as concrete and steel structures absorb and radiate intense heat.

In rural areas, farmers are also adapting their routines. Irrigation is now carried out early in the morning or late in the afternoon to reduce water loss and minimise exposure to extreme heat for both crops and workers.

Authorities issue health and safety warnings

Authorities advise visitors to stay hydrated, wear light clothing and schedule sightseeing during early morning or late afternoon hours to reduce exposure to direct sunlight.

According to the city’s hydrometeorological station, recorded temperatures range from 37 to 39°C, though actual outdoor conditions may be significantly higher. The heatwave is expected to persist in the coming days, raising concerns over fire risks and power grid overload due to increased electricity demand.

Authorities have stepped up preventive measures, particularly in fire safety across residential areas and production facilities. Nguyen Van Hung, director of the city’s meteorological agency, urged residents to avoid outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., stay hydrated and take precautions against heat-related health risks.

Amid the intense heat, shaded riverbanks and brief midday rests have become small but vital refuges, helping residents cope with extreme weather. Adjustments in daily routines, combined with public health and weather advisories, are enabling communities to gradually adapt while maintaining livelihoods during the harsh summer conditions.

Heatwave above 40°C expected to persist, raising fire risks in Vietnam

VOV.VN - A widespread heatwave beginning on April 7 is forecast to expand across northern Vietnam and persist for several days at high intensity, with temperatures in some areas exceeding 40°C, posing serious risks to public health and fire safety.