CaliToday (12/12/2025): Vietnam is currently experiencing a tale of two extremes. While the North is battling a hazardous combination of freezing temperatures and suffocating air pollution, the South is facing its own challenges with rising waters despite the warmth.
Here is the breakdown of the weather situation across the country for today and the upcoming weekend.
1. The North: A "Gray Winter" of Freezing Cold and Pollution
Residents in Northern Vietnam, particularly in Hanoi, are facing a punishing double threat: a severe cold snap combined with dangerous air quality.
The Big Freeze: A powerful Northeast Monsoon has plunged the region into a state of "Rét đậm, rét hại" (severe and damaging cold). Temperatures have dropped sharply, with mountainous areas facing near-freezing conditions.
The "Airpocalypse": The cold air is trapping pollutants near the ground, creating a thick, stagnant blanket of smog. Hanoi is currently shrouded in dense fog mixed with fine dust (PM2.5).
Visibility: Drastically reduced in early mornings and late nights.
Health Warning: Air Quality Index (AQI) levels are flashing red and purple (Very Unhealthy to Hazardous).
Advisory: The Ministry of Health strongly advises children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues to stay indoors. If you must go out, N95 masks are essential—standard surgical masks offer little protection against this level of fine dust.
2. Coastal Danger: Gale-Force Winds and 6-Meter Waves
Travelers planning island trips in the North (such as to Cat Ba or Co To) should check with operators immediately.
Rough Seas: The Northeast Monsoon is generating powerful winds at sea, equivalent to a tropical storm.
Danger Zone: Wave heights are reaching 4 to 6 meters. This poses a significant risk to maritime vessels. Many boat tours and ferry services may be suspended or delayed for safety.
3. The South & Ho Chi Minh City: Unseasonal Rains and Rising Tides
While the Southern region is spared the freezing cold, the weather in Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta is becoming unpredictable.
"Dry Season" Rain: Despite being in the dry season months, the region is experiencing unseasonal local rain showers. These sudden downpours can catch commuters off guard.
King Tides (Triều Cường): The most pressing concern is the rising tide cycle.
Flood Risk: Low-lying areas in District 7, District 8, and Nha Be are at high risk of street flooding, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon high tides.
Traffic Warning: Motorbikes are at risk of stalling in flooded streets. Commuters should monitor tide schedules (usually peaking between 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM) to plan their routes.