From the afternoon and evening of March 28, a strong cold spell will sweep into northern Vietnam and parts of north-central Vietnam, causing temperatures to plummet and bringing cold, rainy weather. In Hanoi, temperatures are expected to drop to 16-18°C, accompanied by rain.

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, a mass of cold air is currently moving southward.

The cold spell is expected to affect the northeastern and north-central regions from the afternoon and evening of March 28, gradually spreading to the northwestern regions and some areas of central Vietnam. Northeasterly winds will strengthen to level 2-3, with coastal areas experiencing winds at levels 3-4.

Sharp temperature drop and widespread cold weather

As the cold air moves in, northern and north-central Vietnam will experience colder temperatures, with mountainous areas facing severe and damaging cold.

In northern Vietnam, temperatures will range from 15-18°C, while high mountainous areas may see temperatures drop below 13°C. North-central Vietnam will also turn cold, with temperatures ranging from 17-19°C. In Hanoi, the temperature will hover between 16-18°C, with rainy and chilly conditions.

Rough seas and hazardous conditions

From the afternoon of March 28, the Gulf of Tonkin will experience northeast winds reaching level 6, with gusts of level 7-8, causing rough seas and waves rising 2-3 meters.

In the northern part of the East Sea, including the waters around the Paracel Islands, northeast winds will reach levels 6-7, with gusts of level 8, generating rough seas and waves up to 3-5 meters high.

From the night of March 28, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected in the mountainous areas of northern and north-central Vietnam, with potential hazards including whirlwinds, lightning, hail, and strong winds that may damage crops, livestock, infrastructure, and transportation. Fishermen are advised to stay ashore due to dangerous sea conditions.

Hot weather persists in central and southern Vietnam

Meanwhile, hot weather continues in parts of north-central and southern Vietnam. On March 26, isolated heatwaves occurred in the western mountainous areas from Nghe An to Hue and in southeastern Vietnam, with temperatures reaching 37°C in Tuong Duong (Nghe An) and 35°C in Phuoc Long (Binh Phuoc). Relative humidity ranged from 50-60%.

Forecasts for March 27-28 indicate that temperatures in the mountainous areas from Nghe An to Hue will peak at 35-37°C, with some places exceeding 37°C and low humidity of 50-60%. In southeastern Vietnam, temperatures are expected to reach 35-36°C with humidity ranging from 50-55%. Localized heatwaves are also anticipated in the northwestern region and the Central Highlands.

The hot weather in Nghe An to Hue is expected to subside from March 29, but hot conditions in southeastern Vietnam may persist until March 29.

Authorities advise residents to keep warm during the cold spell and protect crops and livestock. Fishermen should avoid going to sea when high wind warnings are issued and stay updated on weather developments to minimize risks.

Bao Anh