Vietnam: High temperatures forecast to persist across much of the country through at least April 22 /update 4

High temperatures are forecast to persist across much of Vietnam through at least April 22. As of April 12, the Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has issued a heatwave warning for southern and northwestern regions, warning of temperatures of 35-38 C (95-100 F) with isolated higher maximums across the affected regions April 13-14. Officials have issued a level 1 warning of natural disaster risk due to the forecast heat. High temperatures are expected to persist across southern and central highland regions April 14-22 and will expand over the northwest April 16-18. High temperatures will also intensify over the central region over the coming days and isolated heat is expected in the northeastern region from April 18.

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.