From the night of October 18, northern Vietnam will begin to experience the first major cold front of the season, with colder temperatures expected at night and in the early morning.

The cold air is forecast to intensify further around October 20–21.

At the same time, the East Sea may see the formation of a tropical storm in the coming days.

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Northern Vietnam is expected to be affected by a strong cold spell. Photo: Thach Thao

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, a low-pressure area currently located east of the Philippines is expected to strengthen into a tropical depression around October 16–17.

It may then develop into a storm and move into the northeastern area of the East Sea.

If this happens, it will be the 12th named storm to form in the region this year.

On October 15, the Southern Regional Hydro-Meteorological Center also reported the formation of another low-pressure area over the northwest Pacific Ocean, which could intensify into a tropical depression or storm and enter the East Sea around October 19–20.

Meteorological agencies note that this is a long-range forecast, and monitoring is ongoing for more accurate updates.

Authorities advise the public to stay informed through official weather bulletins and warnings to proactively prepare for production and ensure safety.

Strong cold front could bring freezing conditions in mountainous areas

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting also warned that between the nights of October 18–19, northern provinces will begin to feel the effects of this first cold air mass.

By October 20–21, the front will strengthen further, potentially causing chilly weather at night and in the early mornings. Mountainous areas could experience near-freezing temperatures.

Additionally, due to the cold air, provinces from Ha Tinh to Quang Ngai are likely to see moderate to heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms.

Before the cold air arrives, northern Vietnam will experience relatively stable weather through October 17, with mostly sunny days and scattered showers or thunderstorms in some areas.

In the Red River Delta, the northern coastal region, and north-central provinces, nighttime and early morning showers are expected.

From Quang Tri to Quang Ngai and across the southern region, scattered rain and thunderstorms will occur in the afternoon and evening, with localized heavy rainfall.

During the period from October 17–25, northern Vietnam is forecast to experience scattered showers and thunderstorms, especially around October 19.

From the night of October 20 through the end of the period, colder weather will set in at night and early morning, with mountainous regions potentially experiencing frost.

In Hanoi, due to the cold front, temperatures from October 21 onward could fall to a low of 21°C and reach a high of 27°C during the day.

Meanwhile, from Thanh Hoa to Quang Ngai, scattered rain and thunderstorms are expected.

Between October 18–21, the area may experience moderate to heavy rain with thunderstorms, and in some places, intense rainfall.

Other regions will also see scattered afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms.

Weather officials warn of the potential for whirlwinds, lightning, hail, and strong gusts during storms.

Bao Anh