Vietnam: High temperatures forecast across most of the country through at least May 30

High temperatures are forecast to persist across most of Vietnam through at least May 30. As of May 27, the Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has warned of temperatures of 36-38 C (97-100 F) with relative humidities of 45-50 percent from Ha Tinh Province to Ninh Thuan Province May 27-28 as well as temperatures of 35-37 C (95-99 F) with relative humidities of 55-60 percent across the southern region May 27. Temperatures of more than 35 C (95 F) are forecast across the northern region, including Thanh Hoa and Nghe An provinces May 27. The heat is forecast to persist over the central region through at least May 30. 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.