Northern and Central Vietnam Experience Extreme Heat Wave Peak at 40°C on June 24

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.