Northern Vietnam is set to face two consecutive cold spells, the first being mild on January 4-5, followed by a stronger one on January 8-9. From January 8 to 13, the region will experience rainy, cold weather, with mountainous areas facing severe frost conditions.
Upcoming cold spells
According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, two cold air surges are expected to affect northern Vietnam in the coming days.
The first, arriving on the night of January 4-5, will bring moderate conditions. The second, stronger surge will occur on January 8-9, driven by intensified high-pressure systems and northeast monsoon winds.
In the lead-up to the stronger cold spell, northern and north-central regions, including Hanoi, will see dry weather with early morning fog and cool nights.
Weather forecast for Hanoi
Currently, Hanoi enjoys dry, sunny days with highs of 24-25°C and lows of 13-14°C. However, starting January 8, overcast skies will prevail, accompanied by light rain.
From January 10 to 13, temperatures will drop slightly to lows of 15-16°C and highs of 21-22°C, marking the end of the dry spell. Combined with light rain, the colder temperatures will bring a distinctly chilly feel.
Regional weather patterns
North and North-Central Vietnam: From January 8 to 13, widespread rain will occur, with mountainous areas at risk of frost and freezing temperatures.
Central Vietnam: Rain will increase from January 9 to 13, with some areas experiencing scattered thunderstorms.
Southern Vietnam, Central Highlands, and Ho Chi Minh City: Sporadic rain and thunderstorms are expected, with a chance of localized wind gusts and lightning. Ho Chi Minh City will remain mostly dry with sunny days and early morning temperatures ranging from 21-24°C.
From January 4 to 6, the East Sea region, including the Paracel and Spratly Islands, will experience strong waves reaching heights of 4-6 meters. Coastal areas from Quang Tri to Binh Thuan will see waves of 3-5 meters, with rough seas persisting until January 7.
Meteorologists predict that cold air surges in January will be stronger than in December 2024, potentially causing extended periods of severe frost in the northern provinces. Mid-January may see frost and ice in high-altitude areas.
Residents are advised to prepare for colder conditions, particularly in mountainous regions, where frost and freezing rain could disrupt daily activities.
Bao Anh