China: Heatwave likely to persist in northwestern and eastern regions through at least July 26

High temperatures will likely persist across northwestern and eastern China through at least July 26. As of early July 17, the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) has issued a yellow high-temperature warning (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) across central and southern Beijing, Chongqing, Fujian, western Gansu, northern Guangdong, northeastern Guangxi, eastern Guizhou, southern Hebei, southern and western Hubei, Hunan, northwestern Inner Mongolia, southern Jiangsu, Jiangxi, northeastern Shaanxi, Shanghai, Xinjiang, and Zhejiang. Temperatures of above 35 C (95 F) are forecast in most areas, with 37-39 C (99-102 F) possible in parts of southern and northeastern Chongqing, central and northern Fujian, northeastern Guizhou, southern Hubei, most of Hunan, most of Jiangxi, Xinjiang, and most of Zhejiang. The high temperatures are forecast to persist across Jiangnan, Jianghuai, and northern South China regions, as well as parts of Hubei, western Inner Mongolia, and Xinjiang through at least July 26. 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.