Vietnam: High temperatures forecast across southern regions through at least April 2

High temperatures are forecast to persist across parts of southern Vietnam through at least April 2. As of March 25, the Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has warned of temperatures of 35-37 C (95-99 F) with relative humidities of 40-50 percent across the southern region March 25-26. The heat is forecast to persist through at least April 2. Officials have issued a level 1 warning of natural disaster risk due to the forecast heat.

Authorities have warned that fires are possible due to the increased demand for electricity and the combination of high temperatures and low humidity. Thunderstorms with strong winds, lightning, and hail are possible in the mountainous areas of central and northern Vietnam when high temperatures occur. Officials could update or expand the alerts over the coming days as conditions change.

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.

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.