Employees of the Urban Environment Company of Lào Cai cleaning up the aftermath of the overnight thunderstorm in the city. VNA/VNS Photo Quốc Khánh

LÀO CAI A hailstorm struck several wards in Lào Cai at 11 p.m. on May 5, causing damage to houses and crops.

Hail was recorded in parts of Lào Cai city, with hailstones measuring 2-3 centimetres in wards like Cốc Lếu, Kim Tân, Bắc Cường, Vạn Hòa, and Cốc San.

The thunderstorm accompanying the hail also brought heavy rains that flooded Lào Cai city overnight. Local authorities have documented some damage to crops and homes.

As of 7 a.m. on Monday, Lào Cai city is still experiencing thunderstorms. Authorities are advising residents to remain vigilant and prepare for severe weather events like tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong winds.

Thunderstorms forecasted until Thursday

According to the National Centre for Hydrometeorological Forecasting (NCHMF), thunderstorms and heavy rain will continue in the northern and north-central regions until Thursday. The NCHMF reported heavy rainfall of 103.2 millimeters in Tân Nam 2 (Hà Giang), 94 millimeters in Cốc San (Lào Cai), and 94 millimeters in Phong Hải (Lào Cai).

A widespread heavy shower is forecast for the northern mountainous region from Tuesday through Wednesday, with potential risks of flooding and landslides. The thunderstorms associated with the rain could also bring tornadoes, lightning, hail, and gusting winds. VNS