Last year, Vietnam experienced extreme heat due to the influence of the El Nino phenomenon, especially in April, when many temperature records were set. However, this year, La Nina has ended and ENSO is currently in a neutral phase, resulting in a more moderate climate. This neutral state is forecast to persist until June.

This year, temperatures are expected to be around the average of previous years, so the heat will not be as intense as in 2024, said Nguyen Duc Hoa, an expert from the NCHMF, recalling that last April recorded some of the highest temperatures in history, with over 100 weather stations surpassing their historical records for the same period.

Widespread heatwaves are likely to begin in the North-western and North-central regions  in the second half of April, though some localized hot spells may still occur in March and early April.

Meanwhile, in the North-eastern region, widespread heatwaves will likely occur from the second half of May onward.

A heatwave is expected in late April, and the intensity of heatwaves will increase in May, with 2-3 episodes forecast in the Northern and Central regions. Each heatwave is anticipated to last 4-8 days in the North and 7-12 days in the Central region.

In April, the total rainfall in the Northern region is expected to range from 70 to 120 mm, with some areas exceeding 150 mm. By May, rainfall in the North is projected to increase to 120-220 mm, with some locations receiving over 250 mm, which is 5-10% higher than the long-term average.

For the Central region, the total rainfall is expected to be around 60-100 mm in April, and will increase to 100-200 mm in May, 5-15% higher than the average for this period.

Although increased rainfall will help ease the intensity of heatwaves, it is important to note that rainfall during April and May may come with hazardous weather patterns such as hail, thunderstorms, and strong winds, which could cause damage to property, homes, agriculture, and even pose risks to human lives.

City workers struggle to make a living amid scorching heat

VOV.VN - As temperatures soar across Ho Chi Minh City, the most populous city in Vietnam, many local residents, especially street vendors, motorbike taxi drivers, and outdoor workers, are enduring extreme heat while trying to make a living.