Northern Vietnam braces for heavy rain and soaring temperatures

The National Civil Defence Steering Committee issued a directive for provinces in Northern Vietnam, Thanh Hòa and Nghệ An to proactively prepare for a widespread heavy‑rain event expected from the night of 14 June through 16 June. Forecasts from the National Hydro‑Meteorological Center project rainfall of 70–150 mm over large areas, with local totals exceeding 250 mm and the possibility of rainfall rates over 100 mm in three hours. The heavy rain threatens flooding in low‑lying and urban zones, flash floods in streams, landslides on slopes, as well as strong winds, hail and lightning.

Authorities have been asked to monitor warnings closely, issue timely information to local officials and residents, evacuate people from high‑risk zones, clear blocked waterways and keep rescue teams on standby. Simultaneously, a heat wave is forecast to bring temperatures of 35–37 °C across the north, with some locations reaching above 38 °C, prompting warnings about heat‑related health risks.

Earlier forecasts for 12‑13 June showed scattered thunderstorms and hot conditions across the country, and officials continue to advise the public to stay informed, avoid exposed areas during storms, and take precautions against heat stress.