China: Heat warnings in place for southern, central, eastern, and northwestern regions through at least July 15 /update 1

Event

Officials have issued weather warnings for excessive heat across southeastern, central, and northwestern China through at least July 15. As of early July 7, the China Meteorological Administration has issued yellow (second-lowest level on a four-tier scale) high-temperature warnings for central and southern Anhui, central and eastern Beijing, Chongqing, central and eastern Gansu, central and southern Hebei, central and western Henan, western Hubei, western Inner Mongolia, central and southern Jiangsu, central and northern Ningxia, central and southern Shaanxi, central and southern Shanxi, Shanghai, Sichuan, southern Xinjiang, and Zhejiang provinces, where temperatures of more than 35 C (95 F) are possible. Higher temperatures of 37-39 C (99-102 F) are possible in northwestern Henan, western Inner Mongolia, northern Ningxia, Shaanxi, southwestern Shanxi, and northern Zhejiang provinces as well as the Sichuan and southern Xinjiang basins. Officials could upgrade or expand the alerts over the coming days as conditions change.

Authorities have warned that temperatures of more than 35 C (95 F) over 3-5 days are possible in northern Anhui, southern Hebei, Henan, northern Hubei, northern Jiangsu, central and southern Shaanxi, and western Shandong provinces and over 6-8 days in southern Anhui, Fujian, central and northern Guangdong, northeastern Guangxi, southern Hubei, Hunan, western Inner Mongolia, southern Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Xinjiang, and Zhejiang provinces through July 15. The highest temperatures of 37-39 C (99-102 F) are possible in Xinjiang Province as well as the Guanzhong and Sichuan basins and the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River.

Hazardous Conditions
The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also threaten vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers' hospitalization.

Transport and Utilities
Very high temperatures may damage road surfaces, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on engines, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. During heatwaves, remain indoors in air conditioning when possible. If outdoor activities are necessary, frequently rest in shaded areas; avoid activity during the hottest times of the day. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which are dehydrating; drink bottled or boiled water. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Cotton fabrics are more cooling than synthetics. Promptly seek medical attention if signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke develop. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

China Meteorological Administration