Ho Chi Minh City and the southern provinces are set to experience a prolonged period of thunderstorms and heavy rain. According to the Southern Regional Hydro-Meteorological Center, satellite images and radar data indicate that convective clouds are developing strongly, leading to rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in areas such as Binh Khanh and An Thoi Dong.

Over the next three hours, these convective clouds are expected to continue developing, causing scattered rain and thunderstorms in the aforementioned areas. The rain may also extend to Phu My Ward, Can Gio, Thanh An, Phuoc An, Tan Thanh, Chau Duc, Kim Long, and nearby regions. Rainfall is anticipated to range from 10 to 30 mm, with some areas possibly exceeding 40 mm. Residents are warned to be cautious of whirlwinds, lightning strikes, hail, and strong winds reaching levels 5-7 (8-17 m/s). Heavy rainfall could lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas.

In terms of weather patterns over the next 24-48 hours, the southwest monsoon will continue to operate at a moderate intensity in the southern region. Additionally, the subtropical high-pressure system located to the south of the region is gradually retreating southward.

From July 18 onward, the southern region will see the emergence of scattered rain and thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoons and evenings. The meteorological agency warns that thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds could cause damage to agricultural production, uproot trees, and damage homes and infrastructure. The heavy rain is also likely to increase the risk of localized flooding, impacting transportation, daily activities, and residents' livelihoods.