Fog is seen in Sa Pa Township, Lào Cai Province. — VNA/VNS Photo Quốc Khánh

HÀ NỘI — The northern and northern central regions are expected to experience a severe cold spell in the last days of this year and during New Year holidays, according to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.

From the evening on December 29, cold weather is forecast to hit the region, bringing rain and lowering temperatures.

The temperatures might drop below 5 degrees Celsius in mountainous areas while the lowest temperatures in other areas would be between 8-11 degrees Celsius.

Cao Bằng, Bắc Kạn, Lạng Sơn, Hà Giang, Tuyên Quang and Lào Cai provinces will be the areas most affected.

Some mountainous areas may see frost.

Residents living in Quảng Trị to Quảng Ngãi Province can expect temperatures around 14-18 degrees Celsius.

There will also be heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in the East Sea, according to the centre.

Temperatures in Hà Nội would drop to between 8-11 degrees Celsius from December 30 and rains can be expected in the capital on December 29 night and December 30.

A strong cold spell had hit Hà Nội capital and the northern region in mid-December, with temperatures in the capital falling to 10 degrees Celsius.

To ensure the health of livestock during the cold weather, agricultural experts advise farmers, especially those living in mountainous areas, not let buffaloes and cows roam free. They are advised to use canvas to cover barns and ensure cattle get enough food. — VNS