Hanoi (VNA) – Among 12-13 storms forecast to enter East Sea, up to sixare forecast to directly affect the mainland in 2018, according to the NationalCentre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecastings.
The central region will be the most affected area.
Rainfall in northern localities in April, June and July is predicted to be15-25 percent higher than the same months in previous years while that ofNovember and December will be lower. Precipitation in May, August, Septemberand October will be equal to the average level of previous years.
Meanwhile, the central region will witness an increase of 15-30 percent inrainfall during April-May and September-October and that in November-Decemberwill be much lower than past years.
The rainy season in the Central Highlands and southern regions is forecast to comeearlier than previous years, with localities seeing a 15-30 percent pickup in rainfallin April and May.
Water levels in the Thao River, Lo River and the lower part of the Hong Riverwill fall 20-30 percent from April-June. The peak of the flood season in thenorthern region will hit alert level 2 or 3.
The flood season in the central and Central Highlands regions will possiblycome earlier than previous years, though flood levels are projected to be thesame as previously recorded.
Saline intrusion in the Mekong Delta region is expected to be less severe than previousyears due to higher water levels in the Mekong River from April to June.
The centre also said that coastal areas in the south will experience high tidallevels in October, November and mid-December.-VNA