HANOI — A prolonged spell of extreme heat is sweeping across much of Vietnam, with temperatures climbing above 40 deg C in parts of the central region and forecasters warning of heightened risks to public health, energy demand and wildfire outbreaks.

The heatwave has been driven by a persistent low-pressure system over the country’s west, combined with a strong foehn wind effect that has intensified conditions across the central provinces and cities in recent days, according to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.

From April 6 to 8, temperatures from Nghe An to Quang Tri surged to around 40 deg C, with some localities exceeding 41 deg C. Tay Hieu Ward in Nghe An recorded 41.9 deg C, while Con Cuong Commune reached 41.3 deg C.

The heat has not been confined to the central belt. In the north-western region, temperatures have hovered between 36 and 38 deg C, with peaks above 39 deg C recorded in areas such as Muong Te in Lai Chau and Phu Yen in Son La.

Meanwhile, the Central Highlands and southern regions have seen widespread heat of between 35 to 37 deg C.

Forecasters say the current pattern is unlikely to ease immediately. The western low-pressure system remains active, while a subtropical high-pressure ridge continues to dominate the south, locking in stable, hot conditions.

From April 9 to 13, the north-west is expected to endure another stretch of intense heat, with temperatures ranging from 36 to 39 deg C and locally higher.

In the Red River Delta, hot conditions are forecast to expand from April 10, with daytime highs of between 35 to 37 deg C.