Vietnam: Adverse weather forecast across the central region through at least April 2

Event

Thunderstorms, strong winds, landslides, and flooding are forecast across central Vietnam through at least April 2. The Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has warned of moderate to heavy rain across the affected area. Tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong winds are also possible during thunderstorms. The NCHMF has issued a level 1 warning of natural disaster risk due to heavy rain, tornadoes, lightning, and hail.

Forecast models indicate heavy rainfall of 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) over Quang Tri and Thua Thien Hue provinces April 1-2 and over Da Nang, Quang Nam, and Quang Ngai provinces March 31-April 2. Rainfall of 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) is likely in Ha Tinh and Quang Binh provinces March 31-April 2, while 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) of rain is forecast in Binh Dinh, Phu Yen, and Khanh Hoa provinces as well as the Central Highlands Region March 30-April 1. Lighter rainfall of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) is forecast over Binh Thuan and Ninh Thuan provinces March 30-April 1 and over Nghe An Province late March 31-April 2.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region, including but not limited to Da Nang International Airport (DAD). Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the South China Sea if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (Vietnamese)