Holiday plans in Vietnam might be taking an unexpected turn! A powerful tropical storm is set to unleash heavy rains and potential flooding across the southern and central regions during the National Day holiday. From disrupted travel to affected celebrations, the country is bracing for impact. Are your upcoming plans ready for this weather challenge?

As Vietnam approaches its significant National Day holiday, a formidable weather system is rapidly developing, poised to bring widespread disruption across the southern and central regions of the nation. What began as a tropical depression over the East Sea is now projected to intensify into Storm No. 6, threatening to unleash torrential rains, intense thunderstorms, and powerful winds. This severe weather alert casts a shadow over the festive period, potentially impeding travel and outdoor celebrations for millions.

Meteorological agencies have been closely monitoring the situation since the morning of August 29, 2025, observing the tropical depression situated near the Hoang Sa (Paracel) archipelago. Reports indicate the system has already escalated to wind speeds of 61 kilometers per hour, registering at Level 6-7 with gusts reaching up to Level 9. Forecasters warn of a rapid intensification, anticipating the depression to achieve Storm No. 6 status within 24 hours, with winds potentially accelerating to Level 8 and gusts up to Level 10.

The storm’s trajectory is currently set towards the northwest at a steady speed of 15 kilometers per hour. This path, combined with its escalating intensity, signifies an imminent threat of significant weather disruptions. Authorities are highlighting the high risk of extensive rainfall, pervasive thunderstorms, and localized flooding risk across numerous provinces, posing a substantial challenge to the affected Vietnam regions.

Ho Chi Minh City weather forecasts are particularly concerning, as the metropolis and other parts of southern Vietnam are slated to bear the brunt of the storm’s initial impact. Starting on August 30, 2025, residents should prepare for widespread downpours, with rainfall expected to range from 100 to 200 millimeters, and some areas potentially experiencing even higher accumulations. These conditions, exacerbated by intense thunderstorms and powerful wind gusts, significantly elevate the potential for severe localized flooding in Vietnam, especially in vulnerable low-lying districts.

The relentless heavy rains are predicted to persist throughout the entire Vietnam National Day holiday period, extending across the southern region and into the Central Highlands. This prolonged period of adverse weather is set to severely impact holiday festivities and outdoor gatherings, disrupting National Day travel plans for both local citizens and international visitors. The economic and social implications of such widespread disruption during a major public holiday are considerable.

While the south faces the primary onslaught, northern regions of Vietnam, including its capital Hanoi, are not expected to escape the storm’s reach entirely. Substantial rainfall is forecast to commence on August 31, potentially interfering with the critical final rehearsal for the National Day military parade. This deluge is projected to continue until Sunday, potentially dampening the celebratory atmosphere of the holiday nationwide.

Furthermore, the intensifying tropical depression is generating extremely rough seas and powerful winds along Vietnam’s extensive coastline. Comprehensive warnings have been issued for all sea areas and coastal provinces, particularly those from Ca Mau to Kien Giang. These regions are anticipated to experience increasingly potent thunderstorms and wind gusts reaching up to Level 8, with the immediate vicinity of the storm’s center facing extreme gusts up to Level 10, posing immense dangers to maritime activities.

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has specifically highlighted the perilous conditions expected for coastal provinces stretching from Quang Ninh to Binh Thuan. Here, strong winds, exceptionally rough seas, and towering waves are expected, with water levels predicted to surge between 2 to 4 meters. These hazardous environments will present severe challenges for all vessels, which are strongly advised to seek safe harbor or avoid navigating through the storm’s projected path.

Given the extensive and prolonged rainfall forecasts, the risk of significant flooding in Vietnam remains paramount, particularly in key agricultural and residential areas. Meteorologists have issued stark warnings about the likelihood of flash floods and landslides, especially in the rugged Central Highlands and vulnerable south-eastern regions. Some localized areas could receive staggering rainfall totals between 150 to 300 millimeters, potentially even higher. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has urged provincial authorities to implement prompt and effective measures, reinforcing flood control and ensuring emergency services are on high alert. Travelers and residents in the affected zones are strongly advised to prioritize safety by avoiding low-lying and riverside areas, and to limit all non-essential travel during the storm’s peak intensity to minimize risks and disruptions.