Temperatures have ranked among the highest on record globally for 11 straight years through 2025, and 2026 is expected to continue that trend, said to the centre’s director, Mai Van Khiem.
In the short term, heat is forecast to intensify across central regions from April 21-22, with highs of 35-37 degrees Celsius and some areas exceeding 37 degrees Celsius. On April 22, temperatures from Thanh Hoa to Hue could reach 36-38 degrees Celcius, with low humidity increasing heat stress.
Southern Vietnam may see localised heat above 35 degrees Celcius, with a broader heatwave likely from April 23-29, while the north could face prolonged thunderstorms from April 20-26, with some heat persisting.
Forecasters warned that high temperatures combined with low humidity could heighten the risk of fires and explosions in residential areas due to increased electricity demand, while prolonged exposure may lead to dehydration.
Looking ahead, 2026 is set to be hotter than average and 2025, driven by global warming and a likely shift to El Niño from June, which typically brings less rain and more heat and drought.
From May to June, the north and centre may see two to three heatwaves a month, and the south one to two, with monsoon rains expected to ease conditions in the south.
Over the longer term, rainfall in the 2026 wet season is likely to fall below average nationwide, raising concerns over water availability for agriculture and daily use, particularly during the 2027 dry season.
