National Focus

Record heat swelters across northern Viet Nam

June 05, 2017 | 11:18 AM GMT+7

Electricity consumption in the North reached a historic peak over the past four days, said Nguyen Đuc Ninh, deputy director of National Load Dispatch Centre.

Record heat across the North makes electricity consumption reach a historic peak. Photo: Internet


Electricity consumption reached roughly 631 million kWh on June 02, surging by 11.8 per cent compared to the same period last week and 10.41 per cent higher than the same period last year.

The surging electricity consumption has been due to the historic heat wave enveloping northern and central provinces and cities, especially Ha Noi, over the weekend. The rising temperatures were caused by a hot depression from the west wind effect.

The highest temperature was recorded at Ha Dong District in Hà Nội and Chi Linh District, northern Hai Duong Province at 42 and 42.2 degrees Celsius respectively on Saturday.

According to experts, the temperature broke all records from the past 45 years.

Professor Pham Ngoc Đang, deputy head of the Viet Nam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment, said that inner parts of cities are often hotter than outskirts because of a surplus of concrete and a dearth of trees.

Customer Service Centre of Electricity Viet Nam Corporation received more than 1,000 calls from Ha Noi from June 01 to 03 and more than 13,000 calls from northern localities, mainly to report power cut incidents.

The scorching weather is forecasted to continue today at the highest temperature of 39-40 degrees Celsius. The hottest time is from 10am to 6pm.

According to Hoang Phuc Lam, head of long-term and short-term drought forecast under National Centre for Hydro-Meteorology, this heat wave will not be the most severe. In June, there will be two to four more heat waves in the northern and central regions.

Vietnam Electricity recommended offices and individuals to save and use electricity effectively over the next days, as the heat is forecast to continue. Air-conditioners should be set at 26 degrees Celsius to save power, reducing the risk of power overload and surging electricity prices.

Vietnam Electricity in the north has halted all works on its grid that cause power cuts during historically boiling days and mobilised workers on duty to respond to any incidents.

The number of children and old people admitted to Hà Nội-based National Pediatrics Hospital and National Geriatric Hospital has increased over recent days. The majority of patients suffered from high fever due to virus, diseases related to respiratory system and stroke.

The Preventive Medicine Department under the Health Ministry has recommended that people should eat boiled food, drink enough water and nutritious food, especially fruits, to ensure vitamin intake and increase body resistance.

Rain is forecasted to comedown on Tuesday, which will cool down the temperature to 35 degrees Celsius.
Resolution 68: A turning point in Vietnam's private sector policy

Resolution 68: A turning point in Vietnam's private sector policy

National Focus -  1 day

As Vietnam sets its sights on becoming a high-income country by 2045, Resolution 68 lays a crucial foundation. But turning vision into reality requires not only good policy - but also unwavering execution, mutual trust and national unity.

Vietnam plans upgrade of Gia Binh airport to dual-use international hub

Vietnam plans upgrade of Gia Binh airport to dual-use international hub

National Focus -  1 day

Vietnam plans to upgrade Gia Binh Airport in Bac Ninh province into a dual-use international airport to support both military and civilian operations, the government said on Friday.

Lives under the scorching sun: Outdoor workers racing against climate change

Lives under the scorching sun: Outdoor workers racing against climate change

National Focus -  3 month

Under unforgiving conditions, the outdoor workers - the backbone of urban economies - endure the harshest impacts of climate change while remaining overlooked by social safety nets. Their resilience and struggles highlight the urgent need for better protection in the face of rising temperatures and precarious livelihoods.

CEO Group chairman unveils guide to Vietnam real estate for foreigners

CEO Group chairman unveils guide to Vietnam real estate for foreigners

National Focus -  5 month

Doan Van Binh, Chairman of CEO Group and Vice President of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, introduced his latest book, “Vietnam Real Estate for Foreigners,” at a launch event in Hanoi on Friday.

Women leading the charge in Vietnam's green transition

Women leading the charge in Vietnam's green transition

National Focus -  6 month

Acting for increased women’s participation and leadership in climate action, Vietnam can accelerate a transition that is more inclusive, just, and impactful.

Steam for girls: A journey of passionate and creative girls

Steam for girls: A journey of passionate and creative girls

National Focus -  7 month

The "Steam for girls 2024" competition provides a creative platform for Steam and an opportunity for students to connect with peers from various regions within Vietnam and internationally.