According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, this cold spell is expected to begin affecting the region from the afternoon of January 20–21, 2026. The update was released on January 13 as part of national weather guidance to support preparations for the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

For the northern region, weather will remain dry from January 18–19, with light morning fog and sunshine during the day. Temperatures will be cold at night and in the early morning. However, starting late January 20 and into January 21, a strong cold front is expected to bring rain and a sharp temperature drop.

From January 21–25, widespread severe cold is likely to set in, with frost possible in high mountainous areas.

In Hanoi, weather will be mostly dry and sunny during the day from January 18–20, with chilly conditions at night and early morning. However, from the evening of January 20 into January 21, the city is forecast to experience rain due to a strong northeast monsoon.

Between January 21 and 25, the capital is expected to see severe cold, with nighttime and early morning lows ranging from 10–12°C, and daytime highs only reaching 15–17°C.

Across north-central Vietnam, from Thanh Hoa to Hue, skies will also remain clear and sunny through January 20, with cold mornings and evenings. From January 21–23, provinces from Quang Tri to Quang Ngai are forecast to receive rain due to strong monsoonal winds. By January 24–25, the weather is expected to stabilize, with limited rain. However, the north of this region could also experience deep cold.

The Central Highlands and southern Vietnam will continue to enjoy mostly dry and sunny conditions from January 18–25. Light morning fog is expected, and in the Central Highlands, it will remain chilly at night and early morning.

This forecast serves as a timely advisory for the upcoming 14th National Party Congress, with officials urging proactive response measures to ensure public safety and event readiness during the anticipated cold snap.

Bao Anh