Vietnam’s northern residents earlier this month have suffered from the longest heat wave for 27 years, which is expected to linger until June 13, state media reported. According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting Temperatures, Hanoi and other northern localities have been regularly reaching 36-39 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s central region has been hit by similarly scorching weather for the last ten days and is forecast to suffer from intense heat for another week. The ultraviolet (UV) index in Hanoi and the central city of Danang is predicted to be at a very high level and could harm those exposed to direct sunlight, the center added. Many people, especially the elderly and children were warned of dehydration, exhaustion or stroke under the scorching weather. The center also raised the alarm about the high risk of fires and explosions in residential areas and forests due to the hot weather and low humidity. Vietnam is predicted to face increasing and more complex natural disasters this year and in future years due to the impact of global warming. (VietnamNews, english.VOV, Lao Dong, congdoan, Zing, Thanh Nien, Tien Phong, Bao Dan Sinh, Nguoi Lao Dong, Giao Thong, Tai Nguyen Moi Truong)
