Global Courant
“I had to come here for power so I could study,” said the agriculture student, adding that the electricity at her home had been on and off all morning.
Scientists have warned that global warming is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events around the world, including heat waves.
Due to drought and a prolonged heat wave, the power supply in the north of the country is under great pressure, according to supplier Vietnam Electricity.
In another packed mall outside Hanoi, families with young children took refuge in the air-conditioning.
“I have been here with my two young children since lunchtime. The kids can play while I can do the shopping. After dinner we go back home. I hope the power will be back by then,” Ms. Do Thuy Dung said.
Hanoi’s average power consumption increased by more than 22.5 percent in May compared to April, according to Vietnam Electricity.
State media also reported power cuts in recent days in Quang Ninh province, home to the World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay.
Several restaurants in Ha Long city were without food on Friday night as power cuts meant people could not cook at home.
Power outages also affected hotels on popular islands.
Authorities have also turned off street lights in some major cities to save energy. AFP
