Residents in Hanoi, especially those working outdoors, were tormented by the extreme heat on Tuesday afternoon, with real-feel temperature reaching 55 degrees Celsius.

The average highs in the capital city were recorded at 38 to 39 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, the National Center for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting reported, adding that the humidity was around 43-65 percent.

However, the actual outdoor temperatures measured by Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper in Hoan Kiem and Ba Dinh District were up to 55 degrees Celsius.

Many streets were nearly empty as people avoided going outside during this time of the day.

Meanwhile, those who had to work outdoors had no other choice but to continue their tasks despite the extreme weather conditions.

At Dong Xuan Market in Hoan Kiem District, many porters were drenched in sweat as they carried heavy goods.

Nguyen Xuan Bac, who has worked as a porter for 10 years, said he often works from 7:00 am until late in the evening.

“We have to work whether it is rainy or sunny because it is the nature of our job,” Bac added.

Nguyen Van Toi, 50, a motorbike taxi driver with 30 years of experience, stated that the number of passengers dropped significantly due to the scorching weather.

Many people avoid going outside, while others choose to travel by taxi instead, Toi explained.

The hot weather in Hanoi is expected to be less intense on Wednesday and Thursday thanks to chances of rains and thunderstorms, according to Hoang Phuc Lam, an official from the National Center for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting.

However, the extreme heat may return on the weekend, Lam added.

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