The cold wave weakens in the north, salt intrusion increases in the south. (Photo: VNA)

The temperatures in the northern region from March 11-20 are expected to be higher than the many-year average by 0.5 degrees Celcius.

Meanwhile, hot days are predicted to occur in the southern region, especially in the second half of March.

MJO (Madden-Julian Oscillation) - the dominant mode of intra-seasonal variability in the tropical troposphere, has the potential to contribute to an increase of local rainfall and showers in southern coastal areas in the first 10 days of the month, the centre said.

Notably, saltwater is likely to intrude upstream of the Mekong River at the highest level from March 1-5, and between March 14-19.

Localities in the southern region are advised to keep updated on hydro-meteorological forecasts, and take proactive measures to cope with saline intrusion.