According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of December 26, cold air has already reached parts of the south-central region. From Ha Tinh to Da Nang, and the eastern areas of Quang Ngai, Dak Lak, and Khanh Hoa, moderate to heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms has been recorded, with temperatures dropping by 6–8°C.

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Hanoi’s temperature could drop to as low as 12°C. Photo: Hoang Minh

Over the sea, the Bach Long Vi station reported northeast winds of level 6–7, gusting to level 8–9, while Ly Son island experienced northeast winds of level 6.

The weather agency said the cold air would continue to move further south during the day, bringing stronger northeast winds inland at level 3, and level 4–5 along coastal areas, with gusts reaching level 6–7.

In the northern and north-central regions, the weather remains cold to very cold, while mountainous areas face severe frost. The lowest temperatures in these regions are expected to range from 11–14°C, dropping to 8–10°C in the mountains, and below 6°C at higher elevations. Frost and ice are likely to appear in some high mountain locations.

In Hanoi, the weather will remain dry, with temperatures between 12–14°C.

Due to the strengthening cold air, areas from Quang Tri to Da Nang, as well as the eastern parts of Quang Ngai, Dak Lak, and Khanh Hoa, will continue to experience rain and scattered thunderstorms, with rainfall between 10–20 mm, and localized heavy rain exceeding 50 mm.

Experts from the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting noted that this year’s cold fronts have been unusually strong, penetrating deeply into southern latitudes and causing widespread freezing conditions in the north since mid-December. Frost and ice may form in the northern mountains.

For northern Vietnam, December 2025 and January 2026 are expected to feature mainly dry, cold weather - chilly nights and sunny days. Occasional rainfall may occur, but the dominant pattern remains dry cold. From late February to March 2026, light drizzles and mist could return to the region.

At sea, the cold air continues to cause rough conditions. In the northern East Sea (including the Hoang Sa archipelago), northeast winds reach level 6–7, gusting level 8–9, with waves 3–5 meters high and strong turbulence. Winds are expected to ease gradually from the western sector on the night of December 26.

In the central and southwestern East Sea (including the Truong Sa archipelago) and offshore areas from Dak Lak to Ca Mau, northeast winds reach level 6–7, gusting level 8–9, with waves 3–5 meters high.

Coastal waters from Quang Ngai to Gia Lai also face northeast winds at level 6, gusting level 7–8, and waves 2–4 meters high.

The meteorological agency warned that freezing weather could negatively affect livestock and poultry, as well as hinder crop growth.

Localized heavy rain may cause flooding in low-lying areas and trigger flash floods or landslides along mountain slopes. Short, intense downpours could also lead to urban flooding in cities and industrial zones.

Strong winds and high waves pose risks to maritime activities, potentially disrupting fishing and transportation at sea.

Bao Anh