According to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, temperatures in several regions on May 25 will keep climbing above 40°C, creating dangerous outdoor conditions and raising concerns over public health and fire risks.

The most severely affected area is Central Vietnam, particularly the stretch from Thanh Hoa to Da Nang and the eastern part of Quang Ngai province. Meteorologists reported intense and exceptionally severe heat across the region, with daytime temperatures commonly ranging from 38 to 40°C and some locations recording temperatures above 40°C.

Weather experts explained that the ongoing heatwave has been intensified by the combined effects of the western low-pressure hot zone and the southwest foehn wind, which significantly increases surface temperatures and dries the air.

In Hanoi, hot and oppressive weather conditions will persist from early morning. Forecasts indicated maximum temperatures of 37 to 39°C, with some areas expected to exceed 39°C during the afternoon.

However, meteorologists noted that official temperatures recorded at weather stations are often 2 to 4°C lower than actual outdoor conditions, especially in densely built urban areas or on asphalt and concrete surfaces that absorb and radiate heat.

As a result, the real-feel temperature in the Vietnamese capital during midday and early afternoon could surpass 40°C, causing extreme discomfort and a burning sensation outdoors.

Other provinces across Northern Vietnam will also record exceptionally high temperatures on May 25. In the northeastern region, temperatures will generally range from 36 to 38°C, with some locations exceeding 39°C. Northwestern provinces will report temperatures between 35 and 38°C.

Meanwhile, Central Vietnam remains the country’s hottest region, with many localities maintaining temperatures close to or above the 40°C threshold. Meteorological experts described this as the strongest heatwave since the beginning of the 2026 summer season and warned that the extreme conditions could continue for several more days.

On May 24, Northern and Central Vietnam had already endured scorching temperatures throughout the day. Several areas recorded temperatures above 38°C at 1 p.m., including Ha Tinh at 38.8°C, Nghe An at 38.6°C, and Hanoi at nearly 39°C.

According to weather specialists, urban heat absorption from roads, buildings, and other infrastructure may push the perceived outdoor temperature beyond 50°C in some areas, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., turning cities into what residents described as a “burning furnace.”

Health experts warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat combined with low humidity levels could increase the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses. Outdoor workers, elderly people, and young children are considered the most vulnerable groups during the ongoing heatwave.

Authorities also expressed concerns over rising electricity demand during the period of extreme heat, which could increase the risk of electrical fires and forest fires, particularly across Central Vietnam.

The latest forecasts indicate that the heatwave in Northern Vietnam may continue until around May 27, while Central Vietnam is expected to endure severe heat until approximately May 28 before temperatures gradually ease as thunderstorms return to the region.

Heatwave returns from May 22 with temperatures exceeding 40°C

VOV.VN - After several days of widespread thunderstorms and cooler weather, Vietnam is forecast to experience another intense heatwave beginning on May 22, with some areas in northern and central regions expected to record temperatures above 40°C.