Intense sunshine blanketed major streets including Pham Van Dong, Do Muoi, Vo Nguyen Giap and Le Kha Phieu, with heat radiating from the asphalt and traffic remaining dense by late morning on February 23.
Many motorcyclists wore thick jackets, gloves and face coverings to protect their skin, while others stopped in roadside shade to rest during the hottest hours.
“I left home early when it was still cool, but by late morning the sun was intense. Without full covering, your face and hands burn easily,” said Nguyen Thi Hoa, a resident of Thu Duc Ward.
According to the Southern Regional Hydro-Meteorological Centre, a widespread heatwave is affecting southeastern Vietnam, with peak sunshine typically lasting from midday to 4 pm.
In Ho Chi Minh City, temperatures are forecast at 23-25 degrees Celsius at night and 32-34 degrees Celsius during the day. Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor exposure, stay hydrated and take protective measures against the sun.
The hot spell is expected to persist across southern provinces until around February 27 before gradually easing.