A widespread heatwave is affecting Northern and Central Vietnam from August 9.
Additionally, temperatures reach 35–37°C (95–98°F) and exceed 38°C (100°F) in some areas.
This Vietnam heatwave August 2026 is expected to last until at least August 14–15.
Highest temperatures occur between 11 AM and 5 PM.
Travelers should take precautions against heat exhaustion, dehydration, and fire risks.
What Happened
According to the National Center for Meteorological and Hydrological Forecasting, Northern Vietnam is experiencing a significant late-season heatwave. On August 9, the tropical convergence zone weakened, and the region came under the influence of a divergent wind field from mainland China, causing hot and sunny weather.
Key temperature readings from August 9 (1 PM):
| Location | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Bac Me (Tuyen Quang) | 38.1°C (100.6°F) |
| Lang (Hanoi) | 37.6°C (99.7°F) |
| Huong Khe (Ha Tinh) | 36.7°C (98.1°F) |
| That Khe (Lang Son) | 36.7°C (98.1°F) |
| Tinh Gia (Thanh Hoa) | 36.4°C (97.5°F) |
| Con Cuong (Nghe An) | 36.4°C (97.5°F) |
The heatwave is forecast to expand to the Northwest region from August 10, affecting areas from Thanh Hoa to Da Nang City and eastern Quang Ngai province.
The natural disaster risk level due to the heatwave is rated as Level 1.
What This Means for Travelers
Who is affected
- Tourists visiting Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh)
- Travelers in Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Thanh Hoa, Ha Tinh, Nghe An)
- Expatriates living in these regions
What this means for your trip
High temperatures combined with low humidity (55–65%) can cause dehydration and heat exhaustion during Vietnam heatwave August 2026. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures is particularly dangerous for children, elderly travelers, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
2. Increased risk of fires
Due to increased electricity demand and dry conditions, there is a higher risk of fires in residential areas.
3. Limited outdoor activities
The hottest period is between 11 AM and 5 PM. Outdoor activities like sightseeing, trekking, and beach visits may be uncomfortable or unsafe during these hours.
4. Impact on specific destinations:
| Region | Current Weather | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi & Northeast | Hot and sunny, 35–37°C | Limited outdoor activities until late afternoon |
| Northwest (Sapa, Dien Bien) | Pleasant, 28–31°C | Best escape from the heat |
| Thanh Hoa to Ha Tinh | Hot, 35–36°C | High temperatures, low humidity |
| Da Nang to Quang Ngai | Hot from Aug 10, up to 36°C | Beach activities may be impacted |
| Central Highlands | Thunderstorms, 26–29°C | Rainy afternoons, cooler |
| Southern Vietnam | Thunderstorms, 31–34°C | Heavy rain in late afternoons |
What You Should Do
For travelers currently in Vietnam:
1. Stay hydrated
- Drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine during peak heat hours
- Carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times
2. Protect yourself from the sun
- Use high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Apply sunscreen every 2 hours, especially if swimming
3. Adjust your itinerary
- Schedule outdoor activities for early morning (before 10 AM) or evening (after 5 PM)
- Visit museums, temples, and indoor attractions during peak heat hours
- Take breaks in air-conditioned cafes or shopping malls
4. Watch for heat exhaustion symptoms
- Headache, dizziness, nausea
- Excessive sweating or lack of sweating
- Muscle cramps
- If you experience these symptoms, move to a cool place, drink water, and rest
5. Check your accommodation
- Ensure your hotel has air conditioning that works properly
- Consider booking a room with a fan or better ventilation
6. Be careful with fire
- Avoid open flames and barbecues in dry areas
- Report any signs of fire immediately
7. Check the forecast
- The heatwave is expected to subside around August 14–15
- Check daily updates from the National Center for Meteorological and Hydrological Forecasting
For travelers planning a trip:
8. Consider adjusting your travel dates, in light of the Vietnam heatwave August 2026.
- If possible, avoid visiting Northern and Central Vietnam until after the heatwave passes
- Consider visiting the Northwest region (Sapa, Dien Bien) where temperatures are more pleasant
9. Pack accordingly
- Light, breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Light rain gear for afternoon thunderstorms in Central Highlands and Southern Vietnam
Key Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Widespread heatwave |
| Affected regions | Northern and Central Vietnam |
| Temperatures | 35–37°C (95–98°F), exceeding 38°C in some areas |
| Highest temperatures | Between 11 AM – 5 PM |
| Start date | August 9, 2026 |
| Expected end | August 14–15, 2026 |
| Humidity | 55–65% (low) |
| Risk level | Level 1 (natural disaster risk) |
| Source | National Center for Meteorological and Hydrological Forecasting |
Related Vietnam With Me Guides
- Vietnam Weather by Month — Detailed guide to Vietnam’s climate throughout the year
- Best Time to Visit Vietnam — When to plan your trip for ideal weather
- Hanoi for First-Timers — What to know before visiting Hanoi
- Da Nang for First-Timers — Tips for visiting Da Nang
- Vietnam Packing List — What to bring for Vietnam’s weather
- What to Do in Hoi An After Dark — Plan evening activities when it’s cooler
Sources
- National Center for Meteorological and Hydrological Forecasting via Vietnam.vn — Why is the northern region still experiencing scorching temperatures of 38 degrees Celsius? (August 8, 2026)
- Vietnam.vn — Weather forecast for August 9, 2026 (August 7, 2026)
- Vietnam.vn — Latest news on the prolonged and intense heatwave in Hanoi and northern Vietnam (August 8, 2026)
- Vietnam.vn — Widespread heatwave warning issued for Northern and Central Vietnam starting August 9 (August 6, 2026)
- DTiNews — Heatwave forecast to spread across northern, central Vietnam (August 6, 2026)