Northern localities of Vietnam, including Hanoi, will endure their first major hot spell of the 2021 summer with temperatures in some places reaching up to 39 degrees Celsius, according to the National Center for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF).

The blazingly-hot temperatures will last from March 30 until April 2, the NCHMF said, adding that temperatures would range from between 35 to 37 degrees Celsius.

A woman drives her daughter on the motorbike under the intensive sunlight. Photo: VoThanh

Temperature would be particularly high in the capital city of Hanoi, with approximately 38 degrees Celsius on April 2.

From the beginning of this week, the scorching heat would be felt in the northwestern region and Thanh Hoa and Nghe An provinces in north central Vietnam, as well as a large area stretching from the central city Danang to the southern province of Khanh Hoa, with temperatures reaching 35-38 degrees Celsius at noon.

As the searing heat is accompanied by increased levels of UV rays, local people are recommended to put on sunglasses, masks, and gloves in an effort to protect their skin whilst commuting.

People are cautioned to prevent likely fire in residential areas as well as wildfire and are advised to avoid outdoor activities from 11 am to 4 pm, drink enough water and proper diet to enhance the immune system.

This summer, some parts across Vietnam are predicted to see the mercury climbing up to the unbelievable 39-42 degrees Celsius, and the temperatures at some points may hit record highs, the NCHMF said.

Meanwhile, the South of Vietnam is expected to suffer from suffocating hot weather for many days. Ho Chi Minh City (HCM City) will see a UV index reading of 11 or more, posing high risk of skin damage, including skin cancer, for people exposed under the sun for a long time.

The city may experience sweltering temperatures averaging 35-38 degrees in the dry season, which is 0.5 to 1 degree higher than the average temperature many years before, causing the possibility of low rainfall in the mid-May.