A newly released forecast has warned that the developing 2026–27 El Niño could have significant impacts across Việt Nam, threatening around 350,000 hectares of winter-spring rice in the Mekong Delta and reducing water availability for hydropower generation, particularly on the Đà River system. Experts estimate there is a more than 95% chance the climate phenomenon will continue through the second half of 2026 and extend into 2027, with the potential to reach moderate or even strong intensity.
According to the report, El Niño is expected to increase the risk of prolonged heatwaves, below-average rainfall, drought and saltwater intrusion, especially in the Mekong Delta, Central Highlands and south-central regions. Authorities have proposed high-risk planning scenarios to help ministries and local governments strengthen preparedness, improve water management and reduce potential losses in agriculture, energy and public infrastructure.
Despite the challenges, the report notes that tighter global agricultural supplies caused by El Niño in other producing countries could create export opportunities for Vietnamese products such as rice, coffee, pepper and tropical fruits, provided domestic production and water resources remain stable. Officials also stressed the importance of stronger forecasting systems, data sharing and early-warning measures to minimise the long-term impacts of the climate event. — HanoiPost
