This morning, November 18, a cold spell spread over the northern region, bringing light rain to the capital. Forecasters said temperatures would continue to drop sharply later in the afternoon and evening.
Light drizzle during the morning rush hour, combined with heavier traffic, led to prolonged congestion across the city.
By 7 am, major streets such as Kim Ma, Dao Tan, Le Van Luong and Lang were packed with vehicles inching forward in the rain, making travel extremely difficult.
Severe congestion hit both the elevated and ground-level sections of the Le Van Luong overpass.
With traffic backed up on the road, many motorcyclists rode onto pavements, weaving through pedestrians and adding to the chaos.
On Huynh Thuc Khang Street at 7.30 am
The severe congestion on Giang Vo Street
Cat Linh Station grew busier as more commuters opted for the metro to avoid the gridlock on surrounding streets.
The cold spell is likely to bring chilly conditions to Hanoi, with some areas turning sharply cold and temperatures expected to fall to 12-14 degrees Celsius.