According to weather forecast information for 2026 from the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, the activity of tropical depressions and storms in the East Sea from March to July is likely to be close to the multi-year average.
From August to December, the number of storms and tropical depressions may be lower than the average, with about 9-10 storms forming in the East Sea and about 3-4 storms likely to directly affect the mainland of Vietnam.
Although the number of storms is not forecast to increase, meteorologists warn that it is necessary to be especially wary of strong storms, rapid developments and complex trajectories due to high sea surface temperatures and ENSO tending to lean towards the hot phase.
From September to December, storms in the East Sea tend to have more impact on the Central region and the Southern region, but it is still possible that they will affect the Northern region in the October-November period.
Regarding the rain forecast for 2026, the rainy season in regions across the country is generally at a level close to the multi-year average: the Central Highlands starts around the end of April - early May, the South in the second half of May and the North around May. Widespread heavy rains may start from June in the North, then gradually spread to the South and end around November in the Central region.
However, the trend of rain in 2026 is considered to be more extreme, as the number of widespread heavy rains may not increase, but localized heavy rains with very high intensity in a short time tend to increase. This increases the risk of flash floods and landslides in the Northern and Central mountainous regions, especially during the peak months of the rainy season and the transitional period.
In addition, in conditions where ENSO is transitioning to a hot phase and is likely to move towards El Nino at the end of the year, thunderstorms, tornadoes, lightning, hail and localized heavy rain may appear more and stronger than average, especially in transitional months such as May-May and October-October.
The Southeast coastal area is forecast to experience about 6 high tides in 2026, falling in the periods 01-06. 3, 28. 3-03. 4, 27. 4-03. 5, 07-13. 10, 04-10. 11 and 04-10. 12. During the year-end high tides, the water level at Vung Tau station may exceed 4.3m, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying coastal areas.
In the first dry season of the year, saltwater intrusion in the Mekong Delta is forecast to be at an average level of many years, peaking from February to April but with little chance of causing widespread impact. From April to July, the risk of drought and local water shortage may occur in some areas of Gia Lai, Dak Lak and Lam Dong.
The weather in 2026 is assessed to be more extreme and unpredictable, with the increase of dangerous weather phenomena such as prolonged hot weather, localized heavy rain, strong storms and high tides.
When traveling during the rainy and storm season, tourists should regularly update storm and tropical depression forecasts in the East Sea, especially if they plan to go to sea, island or mountain tourist destinations.
During high tides, heavy rain or strong storms, it is necessary to closely monitor weather information, limit movement to coastal areas, rivers, streams or areas at risk of landslides to ensure safety.
