Vietnam has a monsoon-influenced climate typical of that of mainland Southeast Asia.[1]: 25 The diverse topography, long latitude (Vietnam spans over 15° of latitude), and influences from the South China Sea lead to climatic conditions varying significantly between regions.[2] The northern region experiences a monsoonal and temperate climate (Cfa) with four distinct seasons (spring, summer, autumn, and winter) with winters typically dry and summers ranging from hot to mild.[3] In southern and central areas, the climate is tropical monsoon (Aw) with only two seasons (rainy and dry).[4][5][6] In addition, a temperate climate exists in mountainous areas, which are found in Sa Pa and Da Lat, while a more continental climate exists in Lai Châu Province and Sơn La Province.[4]
20% of Vietnam's total surface area is low-elevation coastal area, making the country highly vulnerable to climate change effects and the rising sea levels in particular.[7]