Vietnam endures extreme heatwave across North and Central regions

A severe heatwave is sweeping Vietnam, with temperatures in the northern and central provinces reaching and sometimes exceeding 40 °C. On 24 June, the National Center for Hydro‑Meteorological Forecasting reported the peak of the event in the North, where Hanoi recorded felt temperatures of around 50 °C and the central belt from Thanh Hóa to Đà Nẵng saw readings above 40 °C. Humidity is low (45‑50 %), raising the risk of heat‑related illness, fires and dehydration, and authorities have issued health advisories urging people to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor work during peak hours.

The extreme temperatures are driving an unprecedented surge in electricity demand. On 24 June the national grid reached a record 58 456 MW at 13:50, with the northern region alone peaking at 29 970 MW. Four 500 kV north‑south transmission lines are supplying up to 20 % of northern demand, helping to balance the system as hydro‑electric output falls and consumption spikes. Operators are urging consumers to shift usage to off‑peak hours and to conserve power.

Forecasts indicate that the heat will begin to ease in the northern highlands after 26 June, while the central corridor may continue to experience intense heat for several more days. Rainfall is expected to arrive later in the week, providing some relief but also bringing the possibility of thunderstorms and localized flooding.