Northern Vietnam is preparing for a major weather event as forecasts predict heavy rainfall starting from August 18 through August 21. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has indicated that the northern region, including Thanh Hoa to northern Quang Tri, will face moderate to heavy rain, with localized areas experiencing extreme downpours exceeding 200mm.

The rainfall is expected to be particularly intense on August 18 and 19, with total precipitation in some locations potentially surpassing 450mm. The agency warns that rainfall rates could exceed 100mm within just three hours, significantly increasing the risk of flooding, flash floods, and landslides, especially in low-lying areas and mountainous regions.

In addition to the northern provinces, the Central Highlands and southern regions will also see scattered showers and thunderstorms, with rainfall ranging from 15 to 30mm, and localized areas possibly receiving over 60mm. From the night of August 19 to August 21, the northern region will continue to experience moderate to heavy rain, with expected totals of 90 to 160mm, and some areas may see over 250mm.

Specific provinces such as Lai Chau, Dien Bien, northern Lao Cai, northern Tuyen Quang, Cao Bang, and Lang Son are forecasted to receive between 30 to 60mm of rain, with some areas exceeding 100mm. Overall, from August 18 to 21, the northern region and Thanh Hoa to northern Quang Tri are expected to accumulate rainfall totals of 150 to 300mm, with localized areas potentially exceeding 450mm.

The weather forecast for August 18 across the country indicates that Hanoi will experience cloudy skies with rain and thunderstorms expected in the evening and overnight. Daytime temperatures will range from 25 to 33 degrees Celsius. Other regions, such as the Northwest and Northeast, will also see similar weather patterns, with warnings in place for strong winds and lightning during thunderstorms.

As the weather system approaches, residents are advised to prepare for potential flooding and to stay updated on weather alerts.