A series of cold waves will continue to intensify over the next ten days (February 20 – March 1), bringing widespread rain and plunging temperatures across northern and central Vietnam. The National Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting predicts severe cold spells in the north, with occasional heavy rainfall expected in the central and southern regions.

According to meteorologists, a continental high-pressure system (cold air mass) will weaken slightly before shifting eastward and transforming. However, from February 22-23, another strong cold front is expected to arrive, maintaining its intensity for several days before gradually weakening.

At higher altitudes, a westerly jet stream will continue to affect northern Vietnam, with a westward trough forming around February 25-26. Meanwhile, the subtropical high-pressure system is expected to extend westward, causing atmospheric disturbances over central Vietnam by February 25.

Harsh weather conditions expected across Vietnam

Due to these atmospheric changes, Vietnam will experience a series of significant weather fluctuations. Persistent cold rain will affect northern and central regions, while unseasonal thunderstorms are forecast for the Central Highlands and southern Vietnam.

Northern Vietnam (February 20-21): Light rain, drizzle, and fog are expected. In the northwest, only isolated showers are forecast, with mist in the early morning and sunny spells in the afternoon.

February 22-24: Scattered rain will continue across the north.

February 25-26: Showers and thunderstorms are expected, followed by a decrease in rainfall. The cold will intensify, with mountainous regions experiencing severe cold waves and possible frost.

Severe temperature drop in Lang Son

Lang Son province, one of the areas most affected by the cold snap, will see a sharp drop in temperatures beginning February 23. By February 24-25, temperatures will plunge to 8-9°C, with daytime highs struggling to reach 11-12°C.

North-central Vietnam (February 20-21): Light rain and mist in the morning.

February 22-24: Scattered rain expected.

February 25-26: Rain and thunderstorms will develop before gradually easing. Cold conditions will persist.

In central and south-central Vietnam, consistent rainfall is expected in the coming days:

February 20-21: Scattered showers.

February 22-25: Moderate to heavy rainfall, with localized downpours and thunderstorms.

Post-February 25: Rainfall will decrease.

Meanwhile, the Central Highlands and southern Vietnam will experience scattered showers and thunderstorms, with unseasonal rain likely around February 22-23.

Weather outlook for Hanoi

Hanoi will continue to experience light rain and drizzle in the coming days.

February 20-21: Overcast skies with light rain, drizzle, and fog. Cold temperatures throughout the day.

February 22-24: Persistent light rain.

February 25-26: Rain showers and thunderstorms, followed by drier conditions.

Meteorologists also forecast that in March, cold air activity will be near the historical average, with a continental high-pressure system extending eastward. This pattern will cause prolonged periods of drizzle and fog in northern Vietnam. By April 2025, cold fronts will weaken, leading to a gradual increase in temperatures.

Additionally, meteorologists predict that the hot season in the Central Highlands and southern Vietnam will begin later than usual in March, with fewer scorching days compared to 2024.

Meanwhile, in northern and central Vietnam, hot spells will primarily affect the northwest and central coastal regions but are expected to be less intense than last year.

Hanoi weather forecast (February 20-22, 2025)

Vietnam is bracing for a prolonged cold spell, with temperatures dropping sharply in northern regions and persistent rain affecting most of the country.

The worst of the cold will be felt between February 23-26, with mountain areas experiencing near-freezing conditions.

Meanwhile, unseasonal thunderstorms will develop in the Central Highlands and southern Vietnam. Residents should prepare for extended wet and cold conditions, especially in the north, where travel disruptions and health risks due to low temperatures are a concern.

Bao Anh