Meteorologists said the ongoing hot spell has been driven by the expansion of a western low-pressure heat system. Over June 20-21, widespread hot weather affected much of the northern midlands and Red River Delta, with temperatures continuing to rise as the heat system strengthens and extends eastward.

From June 22, most northern provinces, except Lai Chau and Dien Bien, are forecast to experience hot to severe hot weather. Daily maximum temperatures are expected to range from 36°C to 38°C, with some locations exceeding 39°C.

The heatwave is forecast to reach its peak on June 23 and 24. During this period, many localities across Northern Vietnam could record temperatures of 37°C to 39°C, while isolated areas may see readings above 39°C.

In major urban localities, the perceived temperature could be significantly higher due to the urban heat island effect, as concrete surfaces and roadways absorb and radiate heat throughout the day.

Relief is expected to arrive from June 25 as showers and thunderstorms develop across the region, gradually lowering temperatures. By around June 26, widespread hot weather in northern Vietnam is anticipated to largely subside, giving way to more comfortable conditions.

While the North prepares for cooler weather, the central region is expected to remain the focal point of a prolonged heatwave.

From June 22 to 25, localities stretching from Thanh Hoa to Hue are forecast to experience severe to extreme heat, with daytime temperatures ranging from 38°C to 40°C. Some western mountainous areas could exceed 40°C.

Further south along the South-central soast, temperatures are expected to reach 36°C to 38°C, with some locations recording higher readings.

Forecasters said the intensity of the heatwave in the central region may ease slightly after June 26 but is likely to persist across a wide area through the end of June.

Meanwhile, the Central Highlands and southern Vietnam are expected to maintain a typical wet-season pattern, with sunny conditions during the day followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms in the late afternoon and evening. Some areas may endure locally heavy rainfall.

Outdoor temperatures may exceed 40°C as heatwave expands to northern midlands

VOV.VN - Outdoor temperatures in parts of Vietnam are forecast to exceed 40 degrees Celsius in the coming days as intense heat persists across central regions and is set to expand to the northern midlands from June 21, according to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.