Although many of the fires were brought under control, authorities warned that wildfire risks remain high as the intense heatwave is expected to continue in the coming days.

Columns of smoke rising from forests across Central Vietnam became a striking scene on June 7 amid one of the region’s most severe heatwaves so far this summer. From Nghe An to Quang Tri, firefighters, local firefighters and residents were mobilised to contain multiple fires and prevent flames from spreading further.

In Nghe An province, a fire broke out in a forested area in Phuc Loc commune on the afternoon of June 7. Under dry conditions and strong winds, the blaze quickly spread across hillsides, forcing hundreds of people to battle the fire overnight. After several hours of firefighting efforts, the blaze was largely brought under control.

At the same time, several coastal localities in Quang Tri province also reported fires in protective forests. This is not the first time Quang Tri has faced forest fires during this year’s dry season. Earlier incidents had already damaged significant areas of coastal protection forests.

The fires occurred as Central Vietnam has experienced the most intense heatwave since the beginning of summer. Temperatures in many areas ranged from 38 to over 40°C, while humidity levels dropped sharply. Vegetation dried out after prolonged heat, creating highly flammable conditions.

According to experts, wildfire risks rise significantly when three factors occur simultaneously: extreme heat, low humidity and strong winds. These conditions are currently affecting many central Vietnamese provinces. Even a small ignition source, from burning vegetation, waste disposal or human negligence, can quickly trigger large-scale fires.

Weather forecasts indicate that some northern central provinces may experience thunderstorms in the coming days. However, many areas from Quang Tri to Hue are expected to remain under intense heat, meaning wildfire risks are unlikely to ease soon.

Beyond forest losses, the fires also threaten local ecosystems and communities. Coastal protection forests play a vital role in blocking strong winds, stabilising sand dunes and protecting fragile ecosystems. Damage to these forests could increase the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters.

The series of fires in early June highlights the growing challenges facing wildfire prevention and response efforts in Vietnam as extreme weather events become more frequent. With summer only beginning, localities are advised to remain on high alert in the ongoing effort to protect the region’s forests.

Widespread heatwave raises extreme wildfire risk in North-central Vietnam

VOV.VN - A prolonged and intense heatwave across large parts of Vietnam is significantly increasing the risk of forest fires, particularly in the North-central region, where several localities have been placed under the highest wildfire warning level.