La Nina Returns but Temperatures Remain High

However, this La Nina event is expected to be weak and short-lived, before returning to neutral conditions. As a result, its cooling effect on global temperatures will be minimal. Meanwhile, the long-term warming trend driven by greenhouse gas emissions and socio-economic activities will continue to push global temperatures above historical averages, including in Vietnam.

WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo emphasized that seasonal forecasts of El Niño and La Nina provide critical climate information, helping governments and communities prepare for weather extremes and climate-related risks.

Impacts in Vietnam

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting predicts that 2 to 3 storms or tropical depressions may form in the East Sea during September, with one potentially making landfall. While rainfall is expected to be close to the long-term average, average temperatures in the Central Highlands and Southern Vietnam are projected to be 0.5 – 1°C higher than usual.

Impact on Agriculture

Persistently high temperatures, even during weak La Nina conditions, will increase evaporation and accelerate soil drying, posing challenges for crop production. Key crops such as coffee, pepper, and rice in the Central Highlands and Southern regions may see reduced yields due to water stress and higher pest pressure. Conversely, heavier rains and storms later in the year could trigger localized flooding, further threatening harvests.

Impact on Public Health

High temperatures combined with humidity increase the risk of infectious diseases such as dengue fever and hand-foot-mouth disease. Urban populations, particularly outdoor workers, face heightened risks of heat stress and cardiovascular complications linked to heatwaves. These conditions could place further strain on already stretched healthcare systems.

Risks to Infrastructure and Urban Life

In major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, tidal flooding combined with heavy rainfall during storm season could submerge roads and disrupt daily life. Recent incidents of flooding during peak traffic hours highlight the vulnerability of urban infrastructure. Over the long term, drainage and flood-control systems will face increasing pressure if extreme weather patterns persist.