Vietnam heat wave drives temperatures to 42.2°C across central regions

A severe heat wave is sweeping Vietnam, with temperatures climbing as high as 42.2 °C at the Tay Hiếu station in Nghệ An. Other readings include 41.7 °C at Như Xuân (Thanh Hóa), 40.6 °C in Hương Khê (Hà Tĩnh) and 40.5 °C in Đồng Hới (Quảng Trị). The National Center for Hydro‑Meteorological Forecasts warns that the hot spell will affect a broad belt from Thanh Hóa through Da Nẵng and the eastern provinces from Quảng Ngãi to Đăk Lắk for several more days. Relative humidity is expected to stay low at 45‑50 %, raising the risk of dehydration, fire outbreaks and increased electricity demand.

In the northern capital, Hanoi will experience one more day of intense heat on June 24‑25, with perceived temperatures near 45‑46 °C. Thunderstorms may arrive late on June 25, followed by a noticeable cooling—temperatures are forecast to fall below 35 °C on June 26, signalling the end of the widespread heat wave in the north. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, and seek safe shelter during any storms, which could bring strong gusts, lightning and hail.