The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has released preliminary predictions for Tet 2025 and an overview of Vietnam's climate trends for the year.

Weather during Tet 2025

Meteorologists predict a minimal likelihood of tropical cyclones forming over the East Sea during Tet 2025.

From January 17–25 (the 18th–26th day of the lunar month), Northern Vietnam is expected to see light morning fog with sunny and cold weather during the day. The Central region, from Thanh Hoa to Hue, will remain mostly cloudy but dry and cold.

From Da Nang to Binh Thuan, dry conditions are expected with cool mornings and mild sunshine during the day. In the Central Highlands and Southern Vietnam, nights and early mornings will bring cloudy skies with light fog, while daytime will remain sunny but not hot.

From January 26–31 (the 27th of the lunar month to the 3rd day of Tet), the northeast monsoon will intensify, keeping the North cold, with mountainous areas experiencing severe cold spells. Light rain or drizzle is expected in the eastern Northern region.

In the North Central region, light rain may occur in some areas, and temperatures will remain cold. The Central and South-Central regions may see scattered rain, particularly before January 28 (the 29th day of the lunar month).

Meanwhile, the Central Highlands and Southern Vietnam will largely remain dry with sunny conditions, with no heatwaves anticipated.

However, coastal areas in the southeastern region will experience tidal surges from January 30 to February 2 (the 2nd–5th day of Tet), with peak tides potentially reaching 4.1 meters, leading to localized flooding in certain coastal and estuary areas.

Climate trends for 2025

The Pacific Ocean's equatorial regions are currently experiencing below-average sea surface temperatures, indicating weak La Niña conditions.

By February to April 2025, sea temperatures are expected to gradually rise but remain slightly below average before returning to neutral conditions by mid-year.

This trend suggests:

Rainfall: Above-average rain is expected in the early months of 2025 in parts of Southeast Asia, including southern Vietnam. Some off-season rain events may occur during the typically dry season.

Storms: The East Sea is expected to have an average number of storms, with around 11–13 storms or tropical depressions predicted, five to six of which may make landfall in Vietnam.

Heatwaves: Heatwaves are projected to begin in early March in southern Vietnam and in April in northwestern and central regions. While 2025 heatwaves may be less severe and shorter than those of 2024, their impact will vary by region.

Cold spells: Northern Vietnam will likely experience significant cold waves from January to March 2025, bringing freezing temperatures, frost, and snow in mountainous areas.

Drought and salinity intrusion: Salinity intrusion in the Mekong Delta is expected to peak between February and April 2025, potentially surpassing average levels and affecting agriculture and water supplies.

Additionally, six significant tidal surges are forecast for the southeastern coastline, with the most intense occurring in November and December, where water levels in Vung Tau could exceed 4.3 meters.

In central and southern provinces outside irrigation zones, localized droughts may occur from March to July 2025, particularly in areas like Phu Yen, Binh Thuan, Kon Tum, and Dak Lak.

Ly Dao