Over the past three days, many localities in the province have experienced a peak heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C in some areas. Amidst this sweltering heat, like a giant furnace, the livelihoods of laborers continue as usual. The burden of making a living overshadows the harsh weather.
Báo Lào Cai•26/05/2026
Lao Cai has just experienced a series of three consecutive days of extreme heat, making the air constantly stifling. Despite warnings to stay indoors, many people still braved the scorching heat.
To avoid the hottest part of the day, construction sites have delayed afternoon work hours until 3 PM. Even so, the heat accumulated from midday still causes workers to sweat profusely as soon as their shift begins. The harshest conditions are faced by road construction workers. They have to endure "double heat" - the scorching sun of over 40°C from above, the heat radiating from machinery, and the accompanying dust and dirt. A worker is transporting cement under the scorching sun of over 40 degrees Celsius. This is truly a very challenging job, and not many people can do it. Using jackets with battery-powered cooling fans or covering their hats with wet towels are effective methods many workers choose to cool themselves down and prevent heatstroke during long hours of outdoor work.
To make a living during the hot season, delivery drivers are forced to transform themselves into "ninjas." Although stifling, this is the only way for them to protect their skin and health from the heat.
Without cooling jackets or motorbikes for quick transportation, the women street vendors also have to endure the sweltering heat from the asphalt road surface. A worker used the method of pouring ice water over a crowbar to cool it down. In the midst of the scorching heat, water bottles brought from home become invaluable lifesavers, helping workers quench their thirst and cool down instantly. But in the intense heat, sweat pours out as soon as they drink.
No matter how harsh the weather, the struggle for survival continues. After a long, exhausting day battling temperatures exceeding 40°C, they return home with hope for a milder tomorrow.
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