Cambodia, Vietnam: High temperatures forecast across region through at least May 2 /update 1

Event

A heatwave will likely persist across Cambodia through at least May 2 and across southern Vietnam through at least April 29. As of early April 27, the Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has warned of maximum temperatures of 35-36 C (95-97 F) across southern Vietnam April 27-28. The high temperatures are forecast to ease April 29. Low humidity of around 40-65 percent is also likely; authorities have warned that fires are possible due to the increased demand for electricity and the combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds.

The Cambodia Department of Meteorology has issued the following heat warnings:

• Red (highest level on a three-tier scale) heat warnings: Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Thom, Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Pursat, and Siem Reap provinces April 27, Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Kratie, Prey Veng, Svay Rieng, and Tboung Khmum provinces April 28, and Kampong Cham, Kampong Thom, Kampong Speou, Kandal, Kratie, Phnom Penh, Preah Vihear, Prey Veng, Ratanakiri, Stung Treng, Svay Rieng, Takeo, and Tboung Khmum provinces April 29. Temperatures of 38-40 C (100-104 F) are forecast.

• Orange heat warnings: Kampong Speou, Kampot, Kandal, Kep, Pailin, Phnom Penh, Prey Veng, Ratanakiri, Stung Treng, Svay Rieng, and Takeo provinces April 27, Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speou, Kampong Thom, Kampot, Kandal, Kep, Kratie, Oddar Meanchey, Pailin, Phnom Penh, Preah Vihear, Pursat, Ratanakiri, Siem Reap, Stung Treng, and Takeo provinces April 28, and Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Kampong Chhnang, Kampot, Kep, Oddar Meanchey, Pailin, Pursat, and Siem Reap provinces April 29. Temperatures of 36-38 C (97-100 F) are forecast. .

• Yellow heat warnings: the rest of the country through April 29. Temperatures of 34-36 C (93-97 F) are forecast April 27, and temperatures of 32-34C (90-93 F) are forecast April 28-29.

Officials could upgrade or expand the alerts over the coming days as conditions change.

Hazardous Conditions
The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also threaten vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers' hospitalization.

Transport and Utilities
Very high temperatures may damage road surfaces, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on vehicles, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. During heatwaves, remain indoors in air conditioning when possible. If outdoor activities are necessary, frequently rest in shaded areas; avoid activity during the hottest times of the day. Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which are dehydrating; drink bottled or boiled water. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Cotton fabrics are more cooling than synthetics. Promptly seek medical attention if signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke develop. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Cambodia Department of Meteorology
Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting