Vietnam's key hydro reservoirs see higher inflows yet remain below normal levels

Data released on 10 July 2026 shows that major hydroelectric reservoirs on the Đà River – Hoà Bình, Sơn La and Lai Châu – recorded substantial inflows of 4.377 m³/s, 4.082 m³/s and 1.438 m³/s respectively. The increased water flow creates favourable conditions for water‑storage ahead of the main monsoon season, supporting power generation during the hot months.

Despite the strong inflows, water levels at all three reservoirs are still below their normal full‑capacity marks: Hoà Bình is 13 m below its dead‑storage level, Sơn La 19 m, and Lai Châu 10 m. Other reservoirs such as Trung Sơn, Bản Vẽ and Khe Bố show mixed statuses, with Trung Sơn near its normal level and Bản Vẽ lagging by 30 m. The upcoming return of El Niño in the second half of 2026 could further strain water availability, raising concerns for electricity security and the need to manage demand growth.

Energy analysts note that while the risk of a nationwide power shortage is lower than during the 2023‑2024 El Niño peak, the combination of rising load and potential water shortfalls requires close monitoring of reservoir operations through 2027.