Vietnam faces extreme heatwave with temperatures up to 42 °C and rising fire, health risks

A severe heatwave is sweeping northern and central Vietnam, with temperatures soaring to 42.2 °C at Như Xuân (Thanh Hóa) and many locations reporting over 40 °C. Meteorologists link the extreme heat to a strong El Niño episode that is expected to persist through the year.

The high temperatures are straining households and infrastructure: cracked tile floors, increased electricity demand from air‑conditioners, and officials advising residents to set units at around 26 °C for comfort and energy savings. Health experts warn that the heat intensifies risks of dehydration, heat‑stroke and cardiovascular events, urging especially the elderly and outdoor workers to stay hydrated and limit exposure.

Forests are under a red‑fire alert as the hot, dry conditions raise the likelihood of wildfires. The Prime Minister has ordered rapid fire‑prevention actions, including 24‑hour monitoring, equipment deployment and stricter control of open flames. Simultaneously, meteorological services forecast scattered thunderstorms and heavy rain over the next days, which could bring localized flooding but also provide temporary relief from the heat.