China: Heatwave likely to persist in northern and eastern regions through at least June 20 /update 1

High temperatures will likely persist across parts of northern and eastern China through at least June 20. As of June 13, the China Meteorological Administration has issued an orange high-temperature warning (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) across central and northern Anhui, Beijing, central Guangdong, southern Guangxi, central and northern Hainan, Hebei, Henan, northern Hubei, southwestern Inner Mongolia, northern Jiangsu, central and northern Shaanxi, central and western Shandong, central and southern Shanxi, Tianjin, and southern Xinjiang provinces. Temperatures of 35-36 C (95-97 F) are forecast in most areas, with 40-42 C (104-108 F) possible in parts of central and southern Hebei, central and northern Henan, and northwestern Shandong. The high temperatures are forecast to persist through at least June 20. Officials could upgrade or expand the alerts over the coming days.

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.

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 vehicles, 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.