According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, widespread severe heat covered northern and central Vietnam on May 25, with some areas experiencing exceptionally dangerous temperatures.

Measurements taken at 1pm showed temperatures across multiple regions ranging from 37C to 39C, with several locations surpassing 39C.

In Hanoi, the Lang meteorological station recorded a peak temperature of 39.7C.

Other localities also reported extremely high temperatures, including Vinh Yen in Phu Tho Province at 39.5C, Do Luong in Nghe An Province at 39.6C, Bac Ninh at 39.3C, and Huong Khe in Ha Tinh Province at 39.2C.

The heatwave has been accompanied by low humidity levels during midday hours, commonly dropping to just 45-50%, creating oppressive and uncomfortably dry conditions.

Northern Vietnam remains a “heat furnace” for two more days

Meteorologists forecast that the peak of the current heatwave will continue over the next 24 to 48 hours.

Across the northern plains, including Hanoi, Phu Tho Province, and areas stretching from Thanh Hoa to Hue City, severe and exceptionally severe heat is expected to persist on May 26 and 27.

Maximum temperatures in these areas are forecast to range between 38C and 40C, with isolated locations potentially exceeding 40C.

Authorities noted that the most intense heat during the day would likely last from 9am to 7pm, while minimum relative humidity could fall to just 40-45%.

In other northern areas - excluding Dien Bien and Lai Chau provinces - as well as Da Nang and eastern parts of provinces from Quang Ngai to Lam Dong, temperatures are also expected to remain dangerously high.

Those regions could see highs of 36C to 38C, with some locations topping 40C. Humidity levels are forecast to remain between 45-50%, while heat conditions may persist from 9am to 6pm.

Weather authorities emphasized that official temperatures are measured in meteorological shelters. In reality, outdoor temperatures may feel 2C to 4C hotter, especially in dense urban areas with large amounts of concrete and asphalt.

Hoang Phuc Lam, Deputy Director of the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, said this was the second major heatwave of May 2026 and already more intense than the previous episode recorded between May 13 and 16.

“If the heat continues for another two to three days, temperatures in some regions could exceed 40C, while certain areas may even reach 41C to 42C,” Lam warned.

He added that the heatwave is expected to last through May 27 in northern Vietnam and until May 28 in central regions.

High fire risk and health warnings

Meteorological authorities also warned that prolonged extreme heat combined with very low humidity significantly increases the risk of fires and explosions in residential areas, as well as forest fires.

Residents have been advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours, and take precautions to protect their health - particularly elderly people, children, and outdoor workers exposed directly to sunlight.

Bao Anh