Severe cold engulfs northern and north-central Vietnam
VOV.VN - The northern and north-central regions of Vietnam are grappling with an intense cold spell, with the northern mountainous areas experiencing severe cold, the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has reported.
By the evening and night of January 26 (the 27th day of the Lunar New Year or Tet), the cold front is expected to extend its reach further into the central region and parts of south-central Vietnam. Northeast winds inland will strengthen to levels 3-4, with coastal areas seeing levels 4-5, and gusts reaching levels 6-7.
As of January 26, the cold front has significantly impacted northern and central northern provinces, as well as parts of the central region. In the Gulf of Tonkin, northeast winds have intensified to level 8, with gusts of level 9-10.
Over the next 24 to 48 hours, the cold front will continue to affect central Vietnam and portions of south-central Vietnam. The northern and north-central regions are forecast to endure severe cold, with frost likely to form in mountainous areas.
Temperatures in the North will range from 6°C to 12°C, dropping below 3°C in higher altitudes. In central Vietnam, temperatures are expected to range from 14°C to 19°C, while Da Nang to Quang Ngai will see readings between 16°C and 19°C. Hanoi will remain dry, with temperatures hovering between 9°C and 12°C.
The intensified cold front is bringing scattered rain and showers to the north-central region, while the central region will face rain from January 26 to 28, with some areas experiencing heavy downpours and thunderstorms.
Mountainous areas are facing severe cold, with frost and ice forming in higher elevations. Thunderstorms in some areas may bring strong winds, lightning, and gusts, posing additional risks.
The heavy rain, combined with strong winds and lightning, could lead to significant impacts on agriculture, causing trees to fall, damage to homes, transportation infrastructure, and public facilities.
Localized heavy rainfall raises concerns about flooding in low-lying areas, flash floods in small rivers and streams, and landslides on sloped terrain.
Strong winds and high waves at sea may disrupt shipping and maritime activities, while severe cold, frost, and ice could damage crops and livestock, further affecting local livelihoods.
