Brian Jeffrey
Due to Storm No. 2, Northern Vietnam is currently witnessing heavy rain, with more rainfall anticipated in the coming month. The impact of La Nina is expected to lead to extreme weather conditions, including storms and floods, throughout the remainder of the year.
Storm No. 2 struck Quang Ninh province on July 23, marking the end of a 640-day streak without a storm hitting the mainland. The storm weakened as it moved inland, but continued to bring significant rainfall to Northern provinces.
Director of the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, Mai Van Khiem, noted the complexity of Storm No. 2, its rapid development from a tropical depression in the South China Sea, and the fluctuations in intensity and path.
The storm, initially powerful over the sea with wind speeds up to level 10 and gusts exceeding level 12, weakened upon reaching land to levels 6-7 with gusts of levels 8-9. The circulation of the storm resulted in heavy rainfall, posing risks of urban flooding and landslides.
Weather forecasts predict above-average rainfall in Northern Vietnam, Central Highlands, and Southern Vietnam while Central Vietnam is expected to have below-average rainfall. There is anticipated formation of 1-2 more storms or tropical depressions in the East Sea, potentially affecting the mainland.
Despite the rain, periods of intense heat are expected in Northern and Central Vietnam, while scattered showers and thunderstorms may occur in other regions. Vigilance is advised for possible thunderstorms, whirlwinds, lightning, and hail.
The weather is projected to worsen towards the end of the year due to the influence of La Nina. Nguyen Van Huong indicated a high likelihood of La Nina conditions developing until late 2024 or early 2025, coinciding with the rainy seasons in Northern and Central Vietnam.
This period may bring increased risk of floods, landslides, and urban inundation due to heightened rainfall. The forecast suggests an increase in the number of storms, with around 11-12 expected in the South China Sea by the end of 2024.
Huong stressed preparedness for potential storms or tropical depressions forming in the East Sea. The persistence of La Nina conditions into early 2025 may lead to cold air activity, triggering severe cold spells and frost.
