Emerging
Jun 23, 2026 Major2
82%
Northern and Central Vietnam Experience Extreme Heat Wave Peak at 40°C on June 24
Vietnam faces peak extreme heat on June 24, with temperatures reaching 38-40°C in Hanoi and central regions, and perceived temperatures potentially 3-5°C higher due to urban heat effects. The prolonged heat wave poses risks of heat-related illness and fires, though some relief is expected from scattered thunderstorms and gradually cooling conditions from June 26 onward.

Quick Facts
Who
National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting
What
Extreme heat wave reaching peak intensity
When
June 24, 2026
Where
Hanoi
- Extreme heat wave reaching peak intensity
- Temperature forecasts of 38-40°C in major cities
- Urban heat island effects increasing perceived temperature
- Scattered thunderstorms and hail predicted
- Heat-related health warnings issued
Vietnam's National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has warned that June 24 will mark the peak of an intense heat wave across northern and central regions. Hanoi is forecast to reach 38-40°C in central areas, with surrounding zones at 37-39°C, while humidity levels remain low at 40-48%. The central regions from Thanh Hóa to Quảng Ngãi and eastward through Gia Lai and Đắk Lắk will experience similarly severe conditions, with some areas potentially exceeding 40°C.
The actual heat sensation experienced outdoors will be considerably higher than official measurements due to urban heat island effects. Temperatures on asphalt and concrete surfaces could feel 3-5°C warmer than recorded temperatures, and in some cases even higher depending on environmental conditions. The intense heat is expected to persist from mid-morning through evening, with central Hanoi experiencing oppressive conditions extending into the night.
Authorities have issued warnings about heat-related health risks including heat stroke and heat exhaustion, as well as increased fire hazard from elevated electricity consumption. While scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected from the evening of June 24 through June 25, particularly in northern mountainous areas, the heat wave is forecast to gradually ease in northern regions from June 26 onward. However, central Vietnam may experience prolonged extreme heat lasting several more days, with the intensity potentially diminishing around June 27.
Forecasters also warn of severe weather phenomena accompanying the thunderstorms, including tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong gusts that could cause property damage and injury. Recent storms on June 22 in Lâm Đồng Province caused significant destruction, including damage to a People's Committee office and numerous residential structures.
Why This Matters
This heat wave peak poses immediate health risks for residents and travelers in northern and central Vietnam, with outdoor workers and vulnerable populations most affected. The elevated electricity consumption increases fire hazard, while accompanying thunderstorms bring risks of tornadoes, lightning, and hail—potentially causing property damage or injury. Understanding the timeline of relief is crucial for planning outdoor activities and emergency preparedness.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 23, 2026
Wire21 locations across northern and central Vietnam already record 38-39°C temperatures
Jun 23, 2026
WireScattered rain and thunderstorms expected to begin in southern regions and Lâm Đồng
Jun 24, 2026
WirePeak of extreme heat wave with Hanoi reaching 38-40°C; heat persists from 10-19h in central areas
Jun 24, 2026
WireEvening thunderstorms and hail begin in northern mountain regions
Jun 24, 2026
WireOppressive heat and humidity conditions extend into the night across central Hanoi
Jun 25, 2026
WireThunderstorms expand from mountain regions toward delta and plains areas
Jun 26, 2026
WireHeat wave begins to gradually ease in northern regions; central Vietnam heat may persist
Jun 27, 2026
WireHeat intensity in central Vietnam may begin to diminish