According to the National Centre for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting, the sweltering heat will continue in the northern and central regions from today, April 30, with average temperatures ranging from 37-39 degrees Celsius in Hanoi and 39-42 degrees in the northwestern and northern central areas.

It is forecasted that the northern central provinces from Thanh Hoa to Nghe An may have rains from this evening due to effects from a light cold spell.

The temperatures will further fall from May 1.

The centre warns that thunderstorms, lightning, strong wind and hail may occur in the region during the rains.

Meanwhile, hot weather will continue in the central, Central Highlands, and southern region until May 5 with temperatures ranging between 38-41 degree Celsius.

Two elderly people in the central province of Ha Tinh have suffered from heatstroke and died when venturing out during the height of the ongoing heat wave.

One victim, 80, cycled out to visit one of his friends on April 28. On the way back, he suffered heatstroke and fainted under a tree on the side of the road. People discovered and took him to hospital for emergency treatment, but he died shortly from heatstroke.

The other victim, 70, also suffered from heatstroke when he walked home at noon on April 27. He fainted and died shortly afterwards.

Meteorologists recommended people, especially elderly people and children, to stay indoors to avoid heatstroke.