Hà Nội motorcyclists cover up to avoid the summer heat wave. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — More heat waves are forecast to hit Việt Nam in June, mostly in the first two weeks. 

The country’s average temperature is predicted to rise 0.5 to 2 degrees Celsius higher than the same period in previous years, standing at 35 to 38 degrees Celsius, while the total rainfall is to reduce by 20 to 40 per cent, according to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Weather Forecasting. 

The ultraviolet (UV) radiation indexes will soar in major cities including Hà Nội and Đà Nẵng, reaching levels of 7 to 9 and imposing high risks of skin damage, heat stroke and dehydration in case of direct exposure. 

Extreme heat waves with a dry southwest wind also put central provinces at risk of blazes and forest fires. 

The Central Highlands and the South are forecast to experience downpours, especially in the second half of June. 

From June 1 to 5, heatwaves will hit the Red River Delta and the Central Region. The northern mountainous area is expected to see showers. 

The rainfall is to reduce nationwide from June 6, by 10 to 30 per cent compared to the same period in previous years, along with soaring temperatures and increasing heatwaves. 

Conversely, the rainfall in the Central Highlands, the South and southern central provinces is forecast to exceed previous years’ average. 

In 2020, Việt Nam is forecast to face historic heatwaves and abnormal weather events. 

In May, Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc urged central provinces to implement measures in response to the prolonged heat wave, drought and saltwater intrusion.

Priority should be given to supplying water for people, animal husbandry and industrial crop cultivation of perennial trees, PM said. — VNS