Hai Duong Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Vietnam

Average Weather

Hai Duong, located in northern Vietnam, experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, muggy summers and mild, dry winters. The average temperature throughout the year ranges from 14°C (57°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in July. The hottest months are June, July, and August, with temperatures regularly reaching or exceeding 35°C (95°F). The coldest months are December, January, and February, with temperatures often dropping below 10°C (50°F).

Seasonal Variations

The seasons in Hai Duong are well-defined. Summer lasts from May to September, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity. During this time, the city experiences frequent thunderstorms and occasional typhoons. Winter, from November to March, is mild and dry, with little precipitation. The shoulder months of April and October offer pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 25°C (77°F). Spring is known for its light drizzle, while autumn is typically characterized by clear skies and cool breezes.

Monthly Temperature Variations

Hai Duong, Vietnam experiences significant monthly variations in temperature throughout the year. The warmest months are June and July, with average temperatures hovering around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). These months often bring high humidity and occasional showers. Conversely, the coldest months are December and January, with average temperatures dropping to a chilly 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). During these winter months, fog and light rain are common.

Seasonal Temperature Patterns

Hai Duong exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns. The dry season extends from November to April, characterized by mild and sunny weather with minimal rainfall. December and January mark the peak of the dry season, with temperatures averaging around 16 degrees Celsius (61 degrees Fahrenheit). The wet season spans from May to October, bringing heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional thunderstorms. August and September are typically the wettest months, with average temperatures reaching up to 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit).

Prevalence and Types of Clouds

Hai Duong, Vietnam experiences a variety of cloud formations throughout the year. During the dry season (November to April), clear skies and scattered clouds are common. Cirrus clouds, high and wispy, are often visible, indicating fair weather. Cumulus clouds, with their puffy, cotton-ball appearance, also make frequent appearances, particularly in the afternoon.

In contrast, the wet season (May to October) brings more frequent cloud cover. Dense overcast skies are typical during this time, often producing heavy rainfall. Cumulonimbus clouds, towering and anvil-shaped, are associated with thunderstorms and can bring intense rainfall and lightning. Additionally, stratus clouds, appearing as a uniform gray layer, cover the sky during overcast conditions.

Impact on Weather and Climate

The prevalence and type of clouds in Hai Duong significantly impact the weather and climate of the region. Cirrus clouds allow sunlight to pass through, contributing to the warm temperatures during the dry season. Cumulus clouds, while providing shade, can lead to localized showers. Thunderstorms associated with cumulonimbus clouds bring heavy rainfall that can replenish water sources but also cause flooding. Overcast skies from stratus clouds block sunlight, resulting in cooler temperatures and reduced solar energy availability.

Overall, the diverse cloud formations observed in Hai Duong play a crucial role in shaping the local weather patterns and influencing the climate. Understanding the characteristics and frequency of these clouds is essential for accurate weather forecasting, agricultural planning, and managing water resources in the region.

Precipitation Patterns:

Hai Duong, Vietnam, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically spans from April to October and accounts for the majority of the annual precipitation. During this period, heavy rains are common, with peak rainfall occurring in July and August. The average annual precipitation in Hai Duong is around 1,500 millimeters (59 inches). However, the distribution of rainfall can vary significantly from year to year, depending on the strength and frequency of monsoon storms.

Influence on Natural Environment:

The abundant precipitation in Hai Duong plays a crucial role in shaping the natural environment of the region. The rainfall supports dense vegetation, including tropical rainforests and mangrove forests, which provide habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species. The rich soil, nourished by the heavy rainfall, is suitable for agriculture, and rice is the primary crop cultivated in the province. Moreover, the presence of rivers and canals, which are fed by monsoon rains, provides a vital source of irrigation for agricultural activities.

Annual Rainfall Patterns

Hai Duong, Vietnam experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The average annual precipitation amounts to approximately 1,500 millimeters (59 inches), distributed across two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.

During the rainy season, which typically extends from May to October, frequent downpours and thunderstorms bring heavy rainfall. The wettest months are July and August, with an average of over 250 millimeters (10 inches) of precipitation each. The high levels of rainfall during this season can lead to flooding and other weather-related hazards.

In contrast, the dry season, which lasts from November to April, is relatively drier. While some rainfall still occurs during this period, it is much less frequent and intense. The driest months are January and February, with an average of less than 50 millimeters (2 inches) of precipitation. The dry season provides a respite from the heavy rainfall of the rainy season, allowing for outdoor activities and agricultural work.

Historical Snowfall Event in Hai Duong

On February 12, 2016, an unprecedented snowfall occurred in the city of Hai Duong in Vietnam. It was not only a rare sight but also the first recorded snowfall in the region since the establishment of the country’s meteorological network in 1886. The snowfall lasted for approximately one hour, covering the city in a thin blanket of snow that gradually melted away. The event was met with widespread amazement and curiosity, as most Vietnamese residents had never witnessed snowfall before.

Impact and Significance

The snowfall in Hai Duong had a significant impact on the local community. While some residents reveled in the novelty of the experience, others faced challenges navigating the slippery streets. The sudden change in weather also affected crops and livestock, as plants froze and animals struggled to adapt to the cold temperatures. However, the snowfall event also served as a reminder of the potential for extreme weather in a region that is typically characterized by tropical and monsoonal climates.

Sunrise in Hai Duong

In Hai Duong, Vietnam, the sun rises over the horizon around 5:30 AM, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape. The city is still peaceful at this hour, with the streets mostly empty except for a few early morning joggers and cyclists. The air is fresh and cool, with a gentle breeze blowing through the leaves of the trees. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the city awakens, and the sounds of traffic and construction fill the air.

Sunset in Hai Duong

The sun sets in Hai Duong around 6:30 PM, creating a beautiful spectacle of colors in the sky. The sky is often ablaze with hues of orange, red, and purple, and the clouds take on a dramatic shape. The sun dips below the horizon, leaving a trail of golden light in its wake. As darkness descends, the city lights up, and the night sky is transformed into a twinkling tapestry of stars.

Appearance and Visibility

The moon is a celestial body that is visible in the night sky from Hai Duong, Vietnam. It appears as a bright, circular disk that changes its shape and appearance throughout the lunar cycle. During a full moon, the entire face of the moon is illuminated by sunlight, while during a new moon, the moon is not visible from Earth. The moon’s visibility is also affected by the Earth’s atmosphere, which can scatter or absorb the moonlight.

Cultural Significance

In Hai Duong, Vietnam, the moon holds significant cultural and religious importance. The lunar calendar is used to determine the dates of festivals and holidays, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival. The moon is also associated with various legends, folk tales, and superstitions. For example, it is believed that a full moon brings good luck and prosperity, while a new moon is associated with bad luck and danger.

Seasonal Humidity Variations

Hai Duong, Vietnam, experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity. During the hot and humid summer months (May to October), average relative humidity levels typically range between 80% and 95%. These high humidity levels can make it feel uncomfortable and sticky outdoors, especially midday and evening. On the other hand, during the cooler and drier winter months (November to April), relative humidity drops to around 60-70%, making the air feel more comfortable and less muggy.

Extreme Humidity Levels

While average humidity levels provide a general understanding of the climate, it is essential to consider extreme humidity events. During the monsoon season (June to August), Hai Duong can experience extreme humidity levels, with relative humidity reaching 100% or even higher. These exceptionally high humidity levels can create a stifling and oppressive atmosphere, making it challenging to breathe and stay cool. Additionally, the high moisture content in the air can lead to the formation of fog, reducing visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions.

Wind Patterns in Hai Duong, Vietnam

Hai Duong, Vietnam experiences a distinct wind pattern that varies significantly throughout the year. During the winter months, from November to April, the region is influenced by the northeasterly monsoon, which brings cold and dry air from Siberia and China. These winds are typically weak and intermittent, with speeds rarely exceeding 10 kilometers per hour. The lack of strong winds during this period results in calm and stable atmospheric conditions.

In contrast, the summer months, from May to October, are characterized by the southwesterly monsoon. These winds originate from the Indian Ocean and carry warm and humid air towards Hai Duong. The southwesterly monsoon brings increased wind speeds, with gusts often reaching 20 kilometers per hour or more. The winds can be particularly strong during the afternoon and evening, when they are reinforced by the sea breeze. The influx of moisture from the Indian Ocean also leads to increased precipitation during this period.

Best Time to Visit Hai Duong for Culture and Festivals

To immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Hai Duong, the best time to visit is during the summer months, particularly June and July. During this period, the province comes alive with a multitude of festivals and cultural events that showcase the region’s rich history and traditions. The majestic Con Son Festival, held in January or February, celebrates the life and teachings of the renowned Confucian scholar Nguyen Trai. For an authentic glimpse of rural life, visit during the Cua Ca Boat Racing Festival in August for a thrilling spectacle of colorful boats adorned with vibrant flags and colorful costumes.

Best Time to Visit Hai Duong for Nature and Outdoor Activities

If you seek adventure and an escape into nature, plan your trip during the shoulder months, April-May or September-October. This period offers pleasant weather with less humidity and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring the province’s scenic landscapes. Hike through the verdant Kim Thang Forest or take a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque Cam River, surrounded by breathtaking limestone karsts. Visit the stunning Con Son-Kiep Bac National Park, known for its captivating caves, towering mountains, and diverse flora and fauna. For a refreshing dip, head to the pristine beaches of Do Son, just a short drive away from Hai Duong city.

Solar Energy Resource in Hai Duong

Hai Duong, located in the northern region of Vietnam, enjoys abundant solar radiation throughout the year, making it a promising location for solar energy development. With an average global horizontal irradiance (GHI) of approximately 1,900 kWh/m2 per year, Hai Duong has a favorable potential for both photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal systems. The irradiation is relatively consistent throughout the year, with higher values during the summer months and lower values during the winter.

Solar Energy Development in Hai Duong

Recognizing the vast potential of solar energy, the government of Vietnam and various renewable energy companies are actively promoting solar energy development in Hai Duong. Several large-scale solar farms have been constructed in the province, contributing significantly to the national renewable energy targets. One notable project is the 350 MWp solar farm in Thanh Ha district, which became operational in 2021 and is one of the largest solar farms in Vietnam. Additionally, many households and businesses have adopted rooftop solar systems to reduce their electricity bills and contribute to the green energy transition.

Topography in Hai Duong, Vietnam

Hai Duong province boasts a diverse topography, ranging from verdant plains to undulating hills. The province is situated in the northeastern region of Vietnam, bordered by the Red River Delta to the south and the Thai Nguyen Plateau to the north. The majority of Hai Duong’s terrain consists of low-lying plains, covering approximately 70% of the province’s total area. These fertile plains are ideal for agriculture and support a thriving rice farming industry. The plains gradually transition into gentle hills, which account for about 20% of the province’s landmass. These hills are typically found in the north and northwestern parts of Hai Duong and offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

In addition to the plains and hills, Hai Duong also features several notable mountain ranges, including the Hai Duong Range and the Yen Lap Range. The Hai Duong Range forms a natural boundary between Hai Duong and Thai Nguyen provinces, while the Yen Lap Range is located in the southwestern region of the province. These mountain ranges add a dramatic touch to Hai Duong’s landscape and are popular destinations for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The highest peak in Hai Duong is Mount Thien Thai, located in the Hai Duong Range, with an elevation of over 3,000 feet.

Nearest Airport to Hai Duong, Vietnam

The closest airport to Hai Duong, Vietnam, is Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), also known as Hanoi Airport. It is situated approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) west of Hai Duong city center. Noi Bai International Airport is the primary international airport serving the Hanoi metropolitan area, which includes Hai Duong. The airport handles both domestic and international flights, connecting Hai Duong to major cities within Vietnam and various international destinations.

Getting from Noi Bai Airport to Hai Duong

To get from Noi Bai Airport to Hai Duong, several transportation options are available. One convenient option is by taxi, which typically takes around 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, there are public buses operated by Hai Duong Transport Company that run between the airport and Hai Duong city center. The bus journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours. For a more private and comfortable transfer, private car hire services are also available at the airport.

Historical Significance

Hai Duong, situated in the fertile Red River Delta of Vietnam, holds a significant place in the nation’s history. The province played a pivotal role in the uprising against French colonial rule during the First Indochina War. The Battle of the Road 18, fought near Hai Duong in 1950, resulted in a strategic victory for the Viet Minh forces and marked a turning point in the conflict. Hai Duong was also an important center of the Vietnamese resistance during the American War (Vietnam War), with its dense network of tunnels and bunkers providing shelter for guerrilla fighters.

Cultural Heritage

Hai Duong boasts a rich cultural heritage, evident in its numerous historical and architectural landmarks. The Côn Sơn–Kiếp Bạc Temple, a renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site, comprises a complex of temples, pagodas, and scenic gardens. The temple is dedicated to the revered monk, Nguyễn Trãi, who played a significant role in Vietnam’s struggle for independence from Chinese domination. Hai Duong is also home to the Kiến Thụy Bridge, an iconic stone bridge built in the 18th century and considered one of the most beautiful of its kind in Vietnam.