Ho Chi Minh City was shrouded in thick fog throughout the day on December 3, creating a hazy, dreamlike landscape. The phenomenon, accompanied by cool weather, obscured views of high-rise buildings and residential areas across the city.

By 1 PM, dense fog continued to envelop the city, veiling landmarks like Landmark 81, Bitexco Tower, and riverside residential complexes along the Saigon River, such as those near the Thu Thiem Bridge connecting Binh Thanh District to Thu Duc City. Even from distances of less than 1 kilometer, the cityscape appeared hidden behind a milky white haze.

Le Dinh Quyet, Head of Forecasting at the Southern Regional Hydro-Meteorological Center, explained that the fog was caused by a cold air mass spreading southward from northern Vietnam, lowering air temperatures. Simultaneously, a low-pressure trough over the southern sea created high humidity levels, with morning humidity exceeding 80% across most provinces in the region.

“The fog layer will persist into the afternoon. This is a normal meteorological phenomenon that occurs under favorable conditions, including high humidity, low air temperatures, and light winds. In urban areas like Ho Chi Minh City, tall buildings can obstruct wind circulation, causing fog to dissipate more slowly,” Quyet noted.

While the fog is not classified as hazardous weather, its density significantly reduces visibility, potentially affecting traffic and transportation. By noon, areas such as Pham Van Dong Street remained cloaked in mist, and commuters experienced limited visibility in the cool weather.

Quyet added that this foggy weather could continue for several more days before conditions normalize. Similar fog occurrences are expected later in January and February, coinciding with stronger cold air waves.

Tuan Kiet