During this early April heatwave, central Vietnam has emerged as the hottest area, influenced not only by the western low-pressure system but also by a pronounced foehn effect.

The heat stretches from Thanh Hoa to Da Nang, as well as the eastern parts of Quang Ngai to Dak Lak.

On the afternoon of April 6, the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting recorded widespread heat, with some areas experiencing severe conditions. Specifically, the northwest of the northern region, the area from Thanh Hoa to Da Nang, and the eastern parts from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak saw temperatures ranging from 35 to 38°C, with some locations exceeding 39°C. In Nghe An and Ha Tinh, temperatures approached 40°C.

The Central Highlands and the southeastern region recorded temperatures of 35 to 36°C, with some places exceeding 36 to 37°C. Strong sunshine from early morning hours has intensified the dry, stifling heat across these areas.

Meanwhile, northern Vietnam is also clearly affected by the expanding circulation of the western low-pressure system. Sunshine appears early, pushing temperatures higher across a wide area. The northwest is experiencing severe heat, while the northeast, including Hanoi and the Red River Delta, is slightly less intense but still noticeably hot. Quang Ninh and Hai Phong are exceptions, where heatwave conditions have not yet set in.

Forecasts for April 7-8 indicate that the northwest will continue to experience severe heat, with maximum temperatures commonly between 36 and 38°C, and some areas exceeding 39°C. The lowest relative humidity is expected to drop to 40-45%.

In the northeast, temperatures are forecast to reach 35-36°C, with some places exceeding 36°C, and relative humidity ranging from 55-60%. The hottest period of the day is expected between 11am and 4pm.

From Thanh Hoa to Da Nang and the eastern areas from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak, severe to extremely severe heat is expected to persist, with temperatures commonly between 37 and 39°C, and some locations surpassing 40°C. Relative humidity in these areas could fall to as low as 35-40%.

The Central Highlands and southern Vietnam will also see widespread heat, with some areas experiencing severe conditions. Maximum temperatures are forecast at 35-36°C, with some places exceeding 37°C, and humidity levels dropping to 45-50%.

Hanoi temperatures may exceed 38°C

Meteorological experts say this heatwave in northern Vietnam could last throughout the week, with intensity increasing toward the weekend.

In Hanoi, temperatures during the first three to four days of the week are expected to hover around 35°C. By the end of the week, temperatures could rise to between 36 and 38°C, with hot and oppressive conditions persisting both day and night.

Heat is also expected to continue for several days in central regions from Thanh Hoa to Da Nang and the eastern areas from Quang Ngai to Dak Lak.

In the south, the heatwave shows no sign of ending, though it may narrow slightly toward the weekend. During the first two to three days of the week, high temperatures will continue to blanket the southeastern region and parts of the Mekong Delta, including An Giang, Can Tho, and Dong Thap, with highs of 35-37°C.

Meteorological authorities note that forecast temperatures may differ from actual outdoor conditions by 2-4°C, or even more depending on surface conditions such as concrete and asphalt.

Amid intensifying heat, authorities advise people to limit outdoor activities during peak hours, stay hydrated, and take necessary health precautions, while closely monitoring weather updates to respond proactively to changing conditions.

Bao Anh