Vietnam heat wave and heavy rain trigger floods and landslides

On July 20‑21 2026, Vietnam experienced a mixed weather pattern. Northern regions, especially the mountainous provinces of Lai Châu, Lào Cai, Tuyên Quang and Cao Bằng, saw heavy rain and thunderstorms with local totals exceeding 100 mm, prompting flash‑flood and landslide warnings. Quảng Ninh and Hải Phòng reported isolated downpours of 10‑30 mm, with occasional very heavy bursts over 100 mm. The National Center for Hydro‑Meteorological Forecasting warned of strong winds, hail, lightning and the risk of rapid runoff.

Central Vietnam endured an intense heat wave, temperatures reaching 38‑39 °C and in some spots above 39 °C, while the South remained largely sunny with occasional evening showers. In response to the rain‑induced damage, Vietnam’s Road Administration ordered an urgent clearance of landslides on mountain roads, prioritising vulnerable sections of National Roads 32 and 279 and mobilising resources for repair and safety signalling. The combined weather impacts affected daily life, agriculture, transport and heightened the risk of fire in hot, dry areas.