In Hanoi, hail was recorded between 18:57 and 19:00 in Viet Hung ward. The hailstones were small but fell densely over a few minutes, reducing visibility and forcing people outdoors to seek shelter.

At the same time, widespread thunderstorms struck Thai Nguyen, with hailstones measuring about 1-3 cm reported in areas such as Thanh Thinh, Cho Moi, Yen Trach and Phu Lac. The storms caused roofs to be blown off, property damage, fallen trees and localized traffic disruption. Local meteorological services said convective cloud systems were continuing to develop and could bring further thunderstorms in the coming hours.

Earlier, at around 16:45 the same day, a hailstorm accompanied by strong winds swept through Minh Luong, Nam Xe and Duong Quy communes in Lao Cai, lasting about 15 minutes with larger hailstones. Several houses lost roofs, fibro-cement roofing was damaged and crops were affected.

According to the national weather agency, the storms were caused by cold air compressing a low-pressure trough, creating strong atmospheric instability and triggering the development of convective clouds.

From May 3, cold air is expected to affect northern and north-central regions, bringing widespread rain and thunderstorms with rainfall of 20-40 mm, with some areas exceeding 90 mm. Severe weather, including whirlwinds, lightning, hail and strong winds, may continue to occur.

In Lao Cai, the risk of flash floods and landslides has been warned due to heavy rainfall in a short period, with some areas recording more than 100 mm of rain and soil moisture nearing saturation. Local authorities are assessing damage and carrying out response measures.

Residents have been advised to limit outdoor activities during, check and reinforce their homes, and strictly follow evacuation instructions in areas at risk of ground subsidence to ensure safety during the current peak period of heavy rain and flooding.

Large hailstorm causes damage in northern Vietnam

VOV.VN - Large hailstones, some reportedly as large as teacups, hit Bac Ha commune in northern Lao Cai province in the early hours of April 16, causing damage to homes and crops.

Hailstorms wreak havoc on crops and homes in northern Vietnam

VOV.VN - Hailstorms and strong winds struck several northern provinces, including Son La, Phu Tho and Lao Cai, on March 21–22, damaging crops and houses as hailstones up to 3 cm in diameter were reported.