Vietnam: Adverse weather forecast across central and northern regions through at least Nov. 17

Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is forecast across parts of central and northern Vietnam through at least Nov. 17. The Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has warned of moderate-to-heavy rain in the central region, with rainfall totals of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) and localized higher amounts of over 15 cm (6 inches) in Thanh Hoa and Nghe An provinces Nov. 12-13 and heavier rainfall amounts of 20-50 cm (8-20 inches) and in places of 70 cm (28 inches) from Ha Tinh to Phu Yen provinces Nov. 13-17. Thunderstorms and localized heavy rainfall are also forecast in northern regions Nov. 12-13, with rainfall amounts of 1.5-3 cm (0.6-1.2 inches) and localized amounts of over 5 cm (2 inches) expected. Strong winds, lightning, hail, and tornadoes could accompany thunderstorms. The NCHMF has issued a level 1 (the lowest level) warning of natural disaster risk due to heavy rainfall, tornadoes, lightning, and hail.

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 heavy rain has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

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 regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with 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.