Heavy rains and thunderstorms expected across northern and central regions as tropical systems develop
Category: Climate & Environment
As Vietnam braces for severe weather, a tropical depression is set to strengthen into a storm as it enters the Gulf of Tonkin. This development, predicted for August 21, 2026, is expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall to northern regions, with central areas continuing to face moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms concentrated in the south during the afternoon and evening.
The tropical depression is currently moving northwest and is projected to intensify into a tropical storm upon entering the Gulf of Tonkin. Starting from the evening of August 20, winds in the Gulf will gradually strengthen, creating increasingly choppy waters. Authorities have warned vessels operating in hazardous zones to take proactive measures against thunderstorms, tornadoes, strong winds, and high waves.
According to the latest meteorological updates, the tropical depression is expected to bring heavy rainfall to northern Vietnam, particularly in the Northwest and Northeast regions. The Northwest is likely to experience scattered thunderstorms, with some areas facing intense rainfall. Meanwhile, the Northeast will see more frequent rain, with heavy downpours expected in several locations. From the morning of August 21 through August 22, rainfall is projected to increase significantly, impacting numerous areas with moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms, and some regions may even see extremely heavy rainfall.
Heavy rainfall poses serious risks, including flooding in low-lying areas, urban settings, and industrial zones, as well as the potential for flash floods and landslides. In central Vietnam, provinces from Thanh Hoa to Ha Tinh will continue to experience moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms on the night of August 20, with the rainfall expected to persist into August 21, albeit with a gradual decrease in intensity starting that evening. Areas along the Quang Tri-Hue and the South Central Coast will also face scattered thunderstorms, but conditions are forecasted to improve during the day on August 21, with sunshine expected before thunderstorms return in the afternoon and evening.
In the Central Highlands and Southern Vietnam, scattered thunderstorms and rain will continue on the night of August 20, with some areas experiencing heavy rainfall. The weather is expected to stabilize somewhat on August 21, with occasional sunshine during the day. By the evening, thunderstorms and rain are likely to return due to the influence of the Southwest monsoon, with localized heavy rainfall expected. The situation is fluid, and residents are advised to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts.
| Region | Weather Forecast (August 21) |
|---|---|
| North Vietnam | Widespread heavy rain and thunderstorms |
| Central Vietnam | Moderate to heavy rain, thunderstorms |
| South Vietnam | Afternoon thunderstorms, localized heavy rain |
Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is monitoring Tropical Cyclone Saudel, located in the northeastern Pacific Ocean near Papua. As of August 20, 2026, the cyclone has a central pressure of 980 hPa and maximum wind speeds of 55 knots. Saudel is also moving northwest and is expected to induce low-level jet streams in the northern Pacific, enhancing the potential for rain across several regions of Indonesia, particularly in North Sumatra and West Sumatra, where the BMKG has urged residents to remain vigilant for moderate to heavy rainfall.
The combination of atmospheric dynamics is set to significantly affect weather patterns across the region, with the BMKG also tracking a low-pressure area in the northern Pacific and a cyclonic circulation in the Makassar Strait. These systems are expected to contribute to the formation of converging and confluent areas that will support the growth of rain clouds.
In addition to the rain, the BMKG has issued warnings about potential high waves of up to four meters in the Indian Ocean from August 20 to 23, 2026, advising communities in vulnerable areas to prepare for possible impacts such as flooding, landslides, and fallen trees.
As the weather systems evolve, residents across both Vietnam and Indonesia are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with severe weather. The BMKG continues to provide updates via their official website and social media platforms, ensuring that the public has access to the latest information on weather developments.
In light of these developments, communities should remain alert as both nations prepare for the potential impacts of these tropical systems. The situation shows the value of preparedness in the face of natural disasters, particularly in regions prone to flooding and severe weather conditions.