El Nino to bring warmer winter and fewer storms to Vietnam

The El Nino phenomenon is expected to drive significant weather fluctuations in Vietnam, leading to a warmer winter with weaker cold air masses. According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, El Nino is projected to maintain strong to very strong intensity through the September-November period, with a 95% probability of very strong intensity between October and December.

Temperatures across the country are forecast to be higher than average, specifically increasing by 0.5 to 2 degrees Celsius during the September-November period. Widespread heatwaves are expected to persist in September, particularly in regions stretching from Thanh Hoa to Hue and the South Central Coast.

Storm activity in the East Sea and subsequent landfalls in Vietnam are predicted to be lower than average for the September 2026 to February 2027 period. However, authorities warn of unpredictable strong storms. Additionally, there is a high risk of rainfall shortages during the peak rainy months of October and November in the central regions, while the rainy season in the Central Highlands and Southern Vietnam may conclude early.