16 May 2022 | 02:53 PM UTC
Vietnam: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least May 26
Heavy rain and thunderstorms forecast across much of Vietnam through May 26. Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in northern provinces.
Event
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across much of Vietnam through at least May 26. Weather warnings have been issued for southern and central regions May 16-17 and disruptions are ongoing in northern provinces following recent heavy rainfall. Further adverse weather is forecast across parts of the country May 18-26.
The Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has warned of moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms across south central, central highlands, and southern regions May 16-17. Rainfall totals of 3-6 cm (1-2 inches) are expected across the affected area, with isolated heavier amounts of around 8 cm (3 inches). During thunderstorms, there is a possibility of tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong winds. Heavy downpours will bring a risk of landslides in mountainous areas and flooding in low-lying areas. NCHMF has issued a level 1 warning of natural disaster risk due to heavy rain, tornadoes, lightning, and hail.
According to the NCHMF's longer-term forecast, scattered showers and thunderstorms with localized moderate to heavy downpours are expected in north central and northern regions May 20-24, with possible very heavy rainfall over mountainous northern areas May 21-22. Scattered showers and thunderstorms with localized moderate to heavy downpours are also expected in south central and southern regions May 22-26.
Heavy rainfall in northern provinces May 9-13 triggered flash floods and landslides in the region and led to casualties and disruptions. At least nine fatalities have been reported and hundreds of homes have been destroyed or damaged. Several roads, bridges, and other infrastructure have also been damaged across the region. Affected provinces include Lang Son, Quang Ninh, Ha Giang, Bac Kan, Dien Bien, Bac Giang, Thai Nguyen, and Cao Bang.
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 across Vietnam. 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)