Dong Thap prepares for severe drought and saltwater intrusion

Authorities in Dong Thap province are preparing for severe drought and saltwater intrusion during the 2026-2027 dry season. Forecasts from the Dong Thap Hydro-Meteorological Station indicate that a strong to very strong El Nino phenomenon will persist through early 2027, with average temperatures expected to rise by 0.5 to 1 degree Celsius above historical averages.

The 2026 rainy season is projected to end in the first half of November, approximately 10 to 15 days earlier than usual, with total rainfall potentially 10% to 30% lower than average. This reduction in rainfall, combined with declining flows from the upper Mekong River and tidal influences, increases the risk of early and deep saltwater intrusion.

Projections suggest that by March 2027, salinity levels of 1g/l could reach 70-80km inland on the Tien River, affecting areas such as Phu Phong and Tam Binh. On the Ham Luong River, salinity levels of 2.5-3.5g/l are expected at the Hoa Nghia station. Experts warn that the upcoming dry season may mirror the severity of the 2015-2016 period, threatening fruit orchards, agricultural production, and domestic water supplies.