Brian Jeffrey
A recent cold front in northern Vietnam is dissipating quickly, resulting in foggy and drizzly conditions across the area, as reported by the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF).
As of February 13, the cold air system has only a mild effect on most northeastern Vietnam, which has led to northeasterly winds reaching 5-6 on the Beaufort scale in the Gulf of Tonkin, with stronger gusts up to force 7 contributing to rough sea conditions.
This evening, the cold front will influence more regions, including the remainder of northeastern Vietnam, northern central Vietnam, and parts of the northwest, bringing moderate northeasterly winds inland.
In northern and north central Vietnam, temperatures will be brisk, especially in mountainous areas which may see even cooler readings. The lowest temperatures during this cold spell are expected to be:
15-17°C in much of northern Vietnam
12-14°C in mountainous areas, with certain locations potentially falling below 11°C
15-18°C in northern central Vietnam
In Hanoi, the temperature is expected to vary between 15-17°C
Although the cold air persists, its mild force paired with westerly winds higher up will allow for quick returning drizzle and mist in northern Vietnam soon.
From February 13-15, northern Vietnam will see:
Light rain in various locations along with widespread early morning fog
Drizzle and mist from February 14-15, especially in eastern provinces such as Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Nam Son La, and Hoa Binh
Chilly temperatures, with severe cold likely in mountainous areas
At the same time, north central Vietnam will experience light rain and cooler weather, while central Vietnam may see scattered showers and thunderstorms, featuring heavier rainfall on February 15.
In south central Vietnam, the Central Highlands, and southern regions, unexpected rain showers are anticipated due to a low-pressure system linked to a tropical depression in the East Sea.
Northwestern Vietnam: Generally dry with morning fog and sunny afternoons, remaining cool, particularly at high altitudes.
Northeastern Vietnam & specific provinces such as Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Nam Son La, and Hoa Binh: Ongoing drizzle, mist, and light rain during mornings, colder temperatures continuing.
North central Vietnam: A blend of foggy mornings and sunny afternoons, apart from February 15-16 and 21-22, which are forecasted to bring rain.
Central Vietnam: Scattered rain and thunderstorms especially on February 16-17 and 21-22.
Surrounding areas: Light rain and sporadic thunderstorms, with increased precipitation in south central Vietnam on February 16-17.
A tropical depression has been spotted west of the central East Sea, with sustained winds ranging from 39-49 km/h (force 6 on the Beaufort scale) and gusts reaching force 8. This system is expected to gradually weaken to a low-pressure area by the afternoon of February 14, moving offshore from Quang Ngai towards Phu Yen.
