Vietnam's Heatwave Intensifies Pressure on Power Grid Amid El Nino Threat

Vietnam faces a severe heatwave, straining the national power grid. The situation could worsen with the anticipated return of El Nino, causing droughts and lower water levels in reservoirs. Residents suffer power cuts, prompting calls for reduced electricity use. Authorities forecast temporary relief, but challenges persist.

Devdiscourse News Desk | * U.S. Forecasters Have Said There Is An 82% Chance Of El Nino Developing By July * Vietnam Residents Say Have Already Suffered Power Cuts* State Utility Has Urged People To Reduce Power Consumption Hanoi | Updated: 27-05-2026 13:34 IST | Created: 27-05-2026 13:34 IST

Vietnam's Heatwave Intensifies Pressure on Power Grid Amid El Nino Threat — This image is AI-generated and does not depict any real-life event or location. It is a fictional representation created for illustrative purposes only.

Vietnam is currently grappling with a severe heatwave, placing immense pressure on the national power grid. According to the industry ministry, the situation could deteriorate with the expected return of the El Nino weather pattern in July.

Temperatures in northern Vietnam have reached around 40°C for days, leading to power cuts in Hanoi. The U.S. Climate Prediction Center warned of an 82% probability of El Nino developing, raising the risk of droughts and heatwaves.

Temporary relief is forecast as the heatwave may ease, but the reliance on coal-fired and hydropower plants makes Vietnam's power system vulnerable. Rising international oil prices and the Iran war have further strained energy supplies.

(With inputs from agencies.)