With prolonged heatwaves, Da Nang is on the highest alert possible, facing a serious threat of heath and forest fires.

Da Nang is on 'extremely high alert' for the risk of forest fires until 26 July.

The Da Nang Forest Protection Department has issued a ban on burning fires in forests in the city during the current dry season. It is urging the public to play their part in helping the city to prevent devastating wildfires.

Forest rangers are required to strictly comply with the municipal regulations about forest fire prevention and firefighting. They are asked to increase around-the-clock patrols in order to promptly detect and extinguish fires, and minimise losses as well.

Due to the effects of the influence of the developing southern low pressure trough associated with a strong foehn wind in the southwest region, a sizzling sunshine continues to grip some parts of the mid-central region from Quang Binh and Quang Ngai, including Da Nang into the weekend.

These localities are experiencing average temperatures ranging between 35 to 37 degrees Celsius. Some parts of the mid-central region are seeing highs of over 37 degree Celsius. The blast of heat is peaking from 11.30am until 2.30pm. Meanwhile, the lowest humidity is reported as between 48% and 60%.

Forecasters have warned, during the hot days, whirlwinds, lighting and hail are possible in mid-central regional localities in the late afternoon.

By HOANG HIEP - Translated by MAI DUNG