Dong Hoi Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Vietnam

Summer (April- September)
Summer in Dong Hoi is characterized by hot and humid weather. The average temperature during this period ranges from 28°C to 34°C (82°F-93°F). The humidity levels are high, making it feel even warmer. Dong Hoi experiences frequent rainfall during the summer months, with July and August being the wettest. However, the rainfall is often short-lived and followed by sunshine.

Winter (October-March)
Winter in Dong Hoi is mild and dry. The average temperature during this period ranges from 18°C to 26°C (64°F-78°F). Humidity levels are lower, making the weather more comfortable. Dong Hoi receives less rainfall during the winter months, with January and February being the driest. The skies are often clear, providing ample sunshine throughout the day.

Monthly Temperature Variations

Dong Hoi experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The average monthly temperature ranges from a low of 18°C (64°F) in January to a high of 30°C (86°F) in July and August. The hottest months of the year are April through September, while the coolest months are October through March. During the wet season, from May to October, rainfall can be heavy, with an average of 2,100 millimeters (83 inches) of rain falling annually.

Seasonal Climate

The dry season, which runs from November to April, is characterized by warm, sunny weather and little to no precipitation. During this time, the average temperature hovers around 25°C (77°F), making it an ideal time to visit Dong Hoi. The wet season, which lasts from May to October, is characterized by frequent heavy rainfall and high humidity. However, even during the wet season, there are still plenty of sunny days to enjoy. Additionally, the rain often provides a welcome respite from the heat and humidity.

Cloud Types and Distribution

Dong Hoi, a coastal city in Vietnam, experiences a wide range of cloud types due to its tropical climate and proximity to the ocean. Common cloud formations include cumulus, stratus, and cirrus clouds. Cumulus clouds, with their distinctive puffy appearance, indicate fair weather and are prevalent during the day. Stratus clouds, on the other hand, are low-lying and often cover the sky, leading to overcast conditions. Cirrus clouds, composed of ice crystals, are thin and wispy and often signify clear weather. The distribution of clouds in Dong Hoi is influenced by the monsoon seasons. During the southwest monsoon (May to October), clouds are more abundant and frequent, resulting in higher humidity and precipitation. In contrast, during the northeast monsoon (November to April), clouds are less prevalent, leading to drier and sunnier conditions.

Cloud Impacts on Weather

Clouds significantly impact the weather in Dong Hoi. Thick cloud cover can block sunlight, reducing temperatures and leading to overcast skies. Stratus clouds, in particular, can trap moisture near the ground, creating a misty or foggy atmosphere. Conversely, thin cirrus clouds allow sunlight to pass through, preserving warmer temperatures and clear skies. Clouds also play a role in precipitation. Cumulus clouds have the potential to develop into cumulonimbus clouds, which produce thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Stratus clouds, when thick enough, can release steady drizzle or light rain. The presence of clouds can also influence wind patterns, as clouds can alter the direction and speed of airflow near the surface.

Monthly Precipitation Patterns

Dong Hoi experiences a distinct pattern of precipitation throughout the year. The wettest months are September and October, when the city receives an average of over 500 mm of rainfall each. During this period, heavy monsoonal rains often lead to flooding and landslides. From November to April, precipitation gradually decreases, reaching its driest month in March, with an average of around 50 mm of rainfall. However, even during the dry season, sporadic showers can occur.

Seasonal Variations

The strong influence of the monsoon system on Dong Hoi’s precipitation is evident in the seasonal variations. The southwest monsoon, which brings warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean, dominates the wet season from May to October. During this period, the city experiences frequent and often intense rainfall. In contrast, during the dry season from November to April, the northeast monsoon prevails, bringing cooler, drier air from the Eurasian continent. This season is characterized by relatively low precipitation levels and clear skies.

Rainfall Distribution

Dong Hoi experiences a distinct wet and dry season due to its tropical monsoon climate. The wet season, lasting from September to November, accounts for approximately 75% of the annual rainfall. During this period, heavy rainfall is common, with occasional typhoons bringing extreme precipitation. The dry season, spanning from December to August, is characterized by significantly lower rainfall, with occasional showers and thunderstorms. The annual rainfall in Dong Hoi averages around 1,400 millimeters (55 inches).

Impact of Rainfall

The abundance of rainfall in Dong Hoi has a significant impact on the region’s agriculture, water resources, and infrastructure. The wet season is crucial for rice cultivation, the primary agricultural crop in the area. However, excessive rainfall during this season can lead to flooding, damaging crops and infrastructure. The dry season, while necessary for crop maturation, can also cause water shortages if the rainfall is insufficient. The city has implemented measures to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall, such as building dams and reservoirs to regulate water flow and prevent flooding.

Snowfall in Dong Hoi, Vietnam: A Rare Phenomenon

Snowfall in Dong Hoi, a coastal city in central Vietnam, is an extremely rare occurrence due to its tropical climate. Temperatures in Dong Hoi typically range from warm to hot throughout the year, with an average temperature of around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). The city experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, but snowfall is virtually unheard of.

Exceptional Snowfall in 1999

The only recorded instance of snowfall in Dong Hoi occurred on January 1, 1999. On that day, a cold front from China brought freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall to the city. The snow accumulated to a depth of several centimeters, causing widespread amazement and excitement among the local population. The snowfall was so unusual that it made national news and was featured in international media outlets. Since then, there have been no further reports of snowfall in Dong Hoi.

Sun Hours in Dong Hoi, Vietnam

Dong Hoi, Vietnam experiences a tropical climate with abundant sunshine throughout the year. The city receives an average of 2,863 sunshine hours annually, making it one of the sunniest cities in the country. During the dry season, from November to April, the sun shines for an average of 6-7 hours per day. The wet season, from May to October, brings slightly less sunshine, with an average of 4-5 hours per day.

The amount of sunshine in Dong Hoi varies throughout the year, with January and February being the sunniest months. During these months, the city experiences an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day. In contrast, July and August are the cloudiest months, with an average of only 3 hours of sunshine per day.

Moonrise and Moonset Times

The moon in Dong Hoi, Vietnam, rises and sets at different times throughout the year. During the summer months, the moon rises later and sets earlier. In the winter months, the moon rises earlier and sets later. The exact times of moonrise and moonset can be found using an online moon calculator or astronomical almanac.

Moon Phases

The moon goes through a cycle of phases as it orbits the Earth. The most common phases are the new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter. The new moon is when the moon is not visible from Earth. The first quarter is when the moon is half-lit. The full moon is when the moon is fully lit. The last quarter is when the moon is three-quarters lit. The moon’s phase can be used to predict the tides and to plan activities such as fishing and hunting.

Relative Humidity in Dong Hoi

Dong Hoi, located in central Vietnam, typically experiences moderate to high levels of humidity throughout the year. The average annual relative humidity is around 80%, with higher values during the rainy season from September to January. During this period, humidity can reach up to 90% or even higher, making the air feel warm and muggy. The high humidity levels during the rainy season can contribute to the growth of mold and mildew in homes and businesses.

In contrast, the dry season from February to August brings lower humidity levels, averaging around 70%. However, even during the dry season, humidity can still be noticeable, especially in the early mornings and at night. The lowest humidity levels typically occur in March and April, when the air is relatively dry and comfortable. Overall, the humidity in Dong Hoi can be a factor to consider when planning outdoor activities or making decisions about clothing and ventilation. During the rainy season, it is advisable to wear loose, breathable clothing and take precautions to stay hydrated.

Wind Patterns in Dong Hoi, Vietnam

Dong Hoi, a coastal city in central Vietnam, experiences distinct wind patterns influenced by both the monsoon and local topography. During the northeast monsoon season, from October to March, strong northeasterly winds prevail in Dong Hoi. These winds bring cool and dry air from the East Asian continent and often result in high waves and strong currents along the coast. The average wind speed during this period can reach up to 15-20 knots (28-37 km/h), making it a challenging time for outdoor activities such as swimming or boating.

Conversely, during the southwest monsoon season from May to September, winds in Dong Hoi shift to a southwesterly direction. These winds are typically warmer and more humid, carrying moisture from the South China Sea. The average wind speed during this season is lower, around 10-15 knots (19-28 km/h), creating calmer conditions along the coast. However, heavy rainfall and occasional tropical storms can occur during this period, bringing strong gusty winds and increased wave activity.

Best time to visit Dong Hoi, Vietnam

The best time to visit Dong Hoi, Vietnam is during the dry season, which runs from February to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. The humidity is also relatively low, making it a comfortable time to travel. However, it is important to note that Dong Hoi can be quite hot and humid during the summer months, so it is best to avoid visiting during this time if you are not accustomed to hot weather.

Another good time to visit Dong Hoi is during the shoulder months of May and October. During these months, the weather is still warm and sunny, but the humidity is not as high as it is during the summer months. This makes it a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy the warm weather. However, it is important to note that there is a higher chance of rain during these months.

Potential for Solar Energy in Dong Hoi

Dong Hoi, the provincial capital of Quang Binh Province in central Vietnam, has significant potential for solar energy development. The city boasts an abundance of sunlight, with an average of over 2,500 sunshine hours per year. This makes it an ideal location for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which convert sunlight directly into electricity. The flat and open landscapes surrounding Dong Hoi also provide ample space for large-scale solar installations.

Existing Solar Energy Projects in Dong Hoi

Several solar energy projects are already operational in Dong Hoi. One notable project is the Dong Hoi Solar Power Plant, completed in 2019. With a capacity of 50 megawatts (MW), it is one of the largest solar power plants in Vietnam. Other smaller-scale solar PV projects, including rooftop installations and off-grid systems, have also been implemented in the city. These projects have demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of solar energy in Dong Hoi, contributing to the city’s overall energy security and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.

Coastal Landscape:

Dong Hoi boasts a picturesque coastal landscape characterized by pristine beaches and rugged cliffs that overlook the South China Sea. The coastline is dotted with secluded coves and sheltered bays, creating idyllic spots for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The beaches are known for their soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, offering a respite from the bustling city center.

Cavernous Underground:

Beneath the surface, Dong Hoi hides a vast network of caves and grottoes that are among the most impressive in Vietnam. The Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located just north of the city and houses over 300 caves, including the Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world. These caves are adorned with intricate stalactites and stalagmites, underground rivers, and bioluminescent organisms that create a surreal and enchanting world.

Dong Hoi Airport (VHD)

Dong Hoi Airport (IATA: VHD, ICAO: VVDH), also known as Dong Hoi Airport, is a domestic airport serving Dong Hoi, the capital city of the Quảng Bình Province in Vietnam. It is located approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 mi) from the city center. The airport was inaugurated in 2008 and has since undergone several upgrades to accommodate the growing demand for air travel in the region.

Airlines and Destinations

Dong Hoi Airport is currently served by four major airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, and Pacific Airlines. These airlines offer direct flights to major cities in Vietnam, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Additionally, the airport has seasonal charter flights to other destinations in Southeast Asia, such as Bangkok and Siem Reap. The airport handles approximately 1.5 million passengers annually and is expected to continue expanding in the coming years to meet the growing demand for air travel in the region.

History and Significance

In Dong Hoi holds a prominent place in Vietnamese history. It served as the provincial capital of Quang Binh Province during the French colonial period and played a pivotal role in the country’s struggle for independence. The city was the site of intense fighting during the Vietnam War, as it was a key target of American bombing due to its strategic importance. In Dong Hoi has been rebuilt and modernized since the war and has emerged as a vibrant and prosperous city.

Tourism and Attractions

In Dong Hoi is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. The city is home to a number of attractions, including the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its spectacular caves and underground rivers. Other popular destinations include the Nhat Le Beach, Chay Lap Farm, and the Quang Binh Museum. In Dong Hoi offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. The city is also well-connected by transportation, making it easy for visitors to explore the surrounding area.