The first cold spell of 2025 has covered the North and Central regions, causing widespread cold weather.
Information about this cold spell is of interest to people. Lao Dong Newspaper reporters had an interview with Dr. Truong Ba Kien - Deputy Director of the Center for Meteorological and Climate Research, Institute of Meteorology, Hydrology and Climate Change - about this issue.
Sir, what is the nature of this cold air mass and how will it affect the weather in the North and Central regions?
- This cold spell is not yet called wet cold, but it is not dry cold either, but in a neutral state.
The northern region is only cloudy and has very light rain in some places. However, this period brings moderate rain to the central region, because this is also the rainy season in this region. In winter, cold air comes over the sea, bringing moisture and interacting with the complex terrain to cause rain.
In the Northern region, the temperature drops quite a bit, possibly differing by 5-7 degrees Celsius compared to recent days. In particular, the lowest temperature may differ by more than 10 degrees Celsius in some mountainous provinces or in some local areas.
The lowest temperature in this cold air mass in the North is generally 9 - 12 degrees Celsius, in mountainous areas 6 - 9 degrees Celsius, in high mountainous areas below 3 degrees Celsius. In the North Central region, it is generally 10 - 13 degrees Celsius; in the area from Quang Binh to Hue, it is generally 14 - 17 degrees Celsius.
How long is this cold spell expected to last, sir?
- This cold spell is neutral in nature so it is forecasted to last only about 3-4 days, after which the temperature will gradually increase. If the cold air strengthens and expands, it is likely to last no more than a week (the cold period is from January 10 to January 16-17). After that, the North is likely to move into a warmer and drier week.
Sir, with the temperature dropping sharply in the coming days, what advice do you have for people?
- The weather has gone through a dry period with prolonged high temperatures. Therefore, when suddenly changing to a cold state, people need to pay special attention to their health. In addition to the temperature issue, the current period is the season of air pollution. People need to supplement nutrition, increase resistance, and the ability to withstand weather factors.
In addition, severe cold also has a major impact on agricultural production and livestock farming; even livestock and poultry are at risk of heat stroke. Therefore, people need to cover their barns to limit possible damage.
Thank you very much!
