Heavy rain will continue across northern Vietnam, while experts warn of 1–2 tropical storms forming in the East Sea this August. Authorities urge readiness as extreme weather patterns intensify.

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has warned of increasingly extreme weather events after a July marked by three tropical storms, widespread flooding, and record-breaking rainfall and heat. Typhoon Wipha (Storm No. 3) was especially destructive, making landfall and triggering severe floods and landslides, particularly in Nghe An Province.

Between July 19–27 alone, northern Vietnam experienced 23 days of rain. Total rainfall reached 150–230mm in most areas, with some localities recording extraordinary levels: 373mm in Song Ma (Son La), 290mm in Mai Chau (Phu Tho), and 422mm in Van Ly (Ninh Binh).

The central provinces from Thanh Hoa to Hue and coastal south-central regions also saw 17–18 rainy days during four widespread thunderstorm events. In the Central Highlands and southern Vietnam, the rainy season continues with frequent showers, including some days of heavy rainfall.

Despite this, parts of the north and central regions faced three short-lived heatwaves with highs ranging from 35–38°C. Notably, temperatures broke historical records at two meteorological stations: Son Dong (Bac Ninh) reached 39.4°C on July 30, and Cam Ranh (Khanh Hoa) hit 40.4°C on July 31.

According to the Department of Dyke Management and Disaster Prevention under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, July alone saw 13 types of natural disasters, including typhoons, thunderstorms, lightning, high winds, floods, landslides, and earthquakes. These events resulted in 66 deaths, 50 injuries, damage to over 11,000 homes, and nearly $145 million in estimated losses.

More extreme weather expected in August

Just as August began, persistent heavy rain from July 31 to August 1 caused deadly flash floods and landslides in Dien Bien and Son La, killing or leaving at least 10 people missing. Roads were cut off and several villages isolated. Military and police forces are actively conducting rescue and relief efforts.

The weather center forecasts that August may see 1–2 tropical storms or depressions form in the East Sea, with the possibility of landfall in Vietnam (the long-term average is 2.4 storms per August, with 0.8 making landfall).

Heatwaves are likely to continue in northern regions and central coastal provinces during the first half of August but will gradually subside. While nationwide rainfall is expected to remain near the seasonal average, the south-central coast may receive 10–25% more rain than usual.

The northern region and provinces from Thanh Hoa to Hue are at risk of new large-scale rainstorms. The Central Highlands and southern regions will also face frequent thunderstorms, especially in the evenings, with some days seeing heavy rain.

Meteorological experts urge people in at-risk areas to monitor official weather updates and prepare for sudden disasters to minimize loss of life and property.

Bao Anh