Scorching weather is forecast to affect regions across Vietnam on Thursday, with temperatures expected to top 40 degrees Celsius in some locales.

The highest temperature in northwestern provinces is anticipated to reach 34-37 degrees Celsius, according to the National Center for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting.

Average highs in northeastern localities, including Hanoi, are likely to reach 29-32 degrees Celsius.

The localities saw light fog early on Thursday morning but skies are likely to clear up by the afternoon.

The heat is expected to be more extreme in north-central Vietnam, where mercury is forecast to rise to 37 degrees Celsius.

In mountainous areas, mercury will average between 37 and 39 degrees Celsius, with some areas seeing temperatures as high as 40 degrees Celsius.

Average highs in localities between central Da Nang City and south-central Binh Thuan Province will be slightly lower, at 33-36 degrees Celsius.

In southern Vietnam, Thursday will be broiling, with temperatures reaching 36 degrees Celsius and unseasonal showers and thunderstorms possible in the evening hours.

Highs in the Central Highlands will be from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius.

The extreme heat combined with low humidity will bring high risks of fire and explosion, as well as forest fires, according to experts. 

This phenomenon may also cause dehydration, exhaustion, and heatstroke in people who spend significant time outdoors.  

It is highly recommended that children and the elderly spend daytime hours indoors.