Vietnam: Adverse weather forecast across northern regions through at least March 26

Event

Thunderstorms, strong winds, landslides, and flooding are forecast across northern Vietnam through at least March 26. As of early March 26, the Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has warned of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in northern Vietnam from Thanh Hoa to Quang Ngai provinces. Moderate to heavy rainfall of 1-3 cm (0.4-1.2 inches) with thunderstorms is likely in the Northern Midlands and Mountains Region while rainfall of 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 inches) is forecast in the western mountainous areas from Thanh Hoa to Quang Ngai provinces.

The heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on stable slopes. Strong winds, lightning, hail, and possible tornadoes could accompany thunderstorms. The NCHMF has issued a level 1 (the lowest level) warning of natural disaster risk due to heavy rain, tornadoes, and lightning.

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 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 affected region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible 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)