According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, the weather forecast shows that from the night of March 31st to April 1st, the North may welcome a wave of weak cold air, causing widespread showers and thunderstorms.
Notably, this cold air mass appeared immediately after a widespread hot spell, creating a "conflict" between cold air mass and hot air. This development increases the risk of thunderstorms, lightning, hail and strong gusts of wind - dangerous weather phenomena that can directly affect tourism and outdoor activities.
Before the cold air arrives, March 31 is identified as the peak hot weather in the North and North Central regions. The highest temperature in the Northeast region is commonly 35-36 degrees Celsius, while the Northwest region has places 36-38 degrees Celsius.
From April 1-2, under the impact of cold air, the weather in the North will turn cool, the temperature will decrease, especially in mountainous areas, it may be chilly. This is a typical seasonal transition period, when the weather fluctuates rapidly and poses many risks.
Previously, from March 29 to the morning of March 30, the North recorded two widespread thunderstorms accompanied by thunderstorms and hail. In Lao Cai and Cao Bang, natural disasters caused 3 injuries, 7 houses completely collapsed, more than 4,000 houses had their roofs blown off and many areas of crops were damaged.
According to the meteorological agency, the cause of recent thunderstorms and hail is due to a compressed low pressure trough combined with wind convergence at an altitude of about 5,000m. This is not an unusual weather pattern in the transitional period, although this year it appeared later than the average of many years.
Experts believe that during the transitional season, extreme weather patterns such as hot sun, localized thunderstorms, tornadoes or hail often occur quickly, with a narrow scope but strong intensity, which can greatly affect daily life and tourism activities.
With complicated weather developments, tourists planning to come to the North need to closely monitor weather forecasts and proactively adjust their schedules.
Limit participating in outdoor activities, mountain climbing, trekking or long-distance travel in the late afternoon and night - times when thunderstorms are likely to appear. When encountering thunderstorms, quickly find a safe shelter, stay away from large trees, power poles and open areas.
Visitors should prepare raincoats and light warm clothes because temperatures can drop quickly after cold air arrives, especially in mountainous areas. At the same time, carefully check weather conditions before visiting natural destinations to ensure safety.