AI Boosts Disaster Prediction Amid Vietnam's Climate Challenges
Hanoi, Tuesday, 18 November 2025.
AI technology is enhancing Vietnam’s disaster prediction capabilities, addressing the urgent need for improved forecasting to combat frequent climate-induced natural disasters like storms and floods.
The Role of AI in Enhancing Forecasting Accuracy
In recent years, Vietnam has been increasingly affected by severe natural disasters such as storms, floods, and landslides, primarily driven by climate change. The need for improved forecasting and response mechanisms has become crucial. Since early 2025, the Vietnamese government has been integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their disaster prediction systems. This initiative is spearheaded by the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. AI has been particularly effective during the storm and flood season, providing more accurate predictions than traditional methods. The application of AI has reduced the 24-hour error margin in storm center locations to approximately 90-110 km, aligning with regional averages [1].
Technological and Financial Challenges
Despite these advancements, Vietnam’s forecasting capabilities remain limited compared to countries like Japan, China, and South Korea. This limitation is primarily due to budget constraints, unsynchronized IT infrastructure, and a shortage of monitoring stations. There is also a need for large-scale computer infrastructure, high-speed processor chips, and a team of skilled experts to fully leverage AI’s potential in disaster prediction [1]. To address these challenges, Vietnam has outlined a comprehensive innovation plan to modernize its hydrometeorological capabilities. This plan prioritizes the integration of AI, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT) across various stages of disaster management, from monitoring and data collection to processing, analysis, and communication [1].
Investment in AI and Semiconductor Development
In a significant move to bolster technological infrastructure, the city of Da Nang has approved an investment of over 200 billion VND (approximately $8.4 million) for a project focusing on semiconductor design and AI development. This project, set to be executed from 2025 to 2028, aims to position Da Nang as a high-tech and innovation hub in central Vietnam. The initiative supports microchip, semiconductor, and AI companies, particularly technology startups located in Software Park No. 2, Hai Chau District. It also involves collaboration with universities and research institutes for training in microchip design and AI, reflecting the city’s broader strategy to enhance its technological capabilities [2].
Future Prospects and International Cooperation
Looking forward, Vietnam plans to develop a smart, multi-scale forecasting system to better prevent and mitigate natural disaster risks. The country aims to improve extreme event forecasting, develop a multi-hazard warning system, and build a team of experts to drive these initiatives. Training programs for young professionals and enhancing public communication are also key components of this strategy. Additionally, Vietnam seeks to foster international cooperation in technology and training to enhance its disaster management capabilities further. These efforts are critical as the country continues to face the increasing frequency and severity of climate-induced natural disasters [1][2].