Brian Jeffrey
An unprecedented weather event on the night of August 22nd resulted in more than 1,000 lightning strikes occurring in northern Vietnam within a single hour, impacting Hanoi and causing significant flooding and widespread disruptions.
This storm, caused by a convergence of low-pressure trough and high-altitude wind, affected multiple regions, with Lang Son, Thai Nguyen, Vinh Phuc, Hanoi, and Hoa Binh experiencing intense lightning activity. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has categorized this as one of the most severe lightning storms of the season.
The heavy rains persisted throughout the night, overwhelming the drainage systems in Hanoi and leading to extensive urban flooding. Major streets were submerged, disrupting both traffic and daily routines. Additionally, the storm brought strong winds that toppled trees across the city.
Measurements taken after the overnight rainfall revealed staggering amounts, with certain areas receiving over 100mm of rain. Noteworthy figures include 195.2mm in Phong Phu (Hoa Binh), 190.4mm in Dong Quang (Thai Nguyen), and 195.4mm in Quan Hoa (Hanoi).
The forecast for August 23rd to August 24th predicts continued moderate to heavy rains in the northeastern region and Hoa Binh, with accumulation potentially exceeding 200mm. This persistent rainfall is anticipated to subside after August 25th.
Expectations also include further weather disturbances in the northwestern region and Thanh Hoa, where scattered thunderstorms might result in up to 100mm of rainfall. The Central Highlands and the Southern regions could see scattered showers and thunderstorms extending into the evening hours.
Looking forward, the northern region and Thanh Hoa are likely to experience more scattered showers and thunderstorms until September 1st, with particularly heavy rainfall anticipated on the nights of August 28th and 29th.
Over the next ten days, the central region can anticipate hot sunny days interspersed with evening thunderstorms and occasional intense heat. Meanwhile, in the Central Highlands and the Southern regions, evening thunderstorms are probable, with significant rainfall in some locations.
Residents are urged to remain alert to the possibility of whirlwinds, lightning strikes, and strong gusts during thunderstorms. The ongoing heavy rainfall raises concerns about potential flooding in low-lying areas, as well as flash floods and landslides in susceptible regions.
Thanh Hue
