China: Heatwave likely to persist in northwestern and east-central regions through at least Aug. 24

High temperatures will likely persist across parts of northwestern and east-central China through at least Aug. 24. As of early Aug. 21, the China Meteorological Administration has issued a yellow high-temperature warning (the second lowest level on a four-tier scale) across the Sichuan Basin, Chongqing, northern Guizhou, Hunan, Hubei, western Jiangxi, most of Anhui, northern Zhejiang, southern and northeastern Henan, southern Hebei, southern Shaanxi and the eastern part of the southern Xinjiang Basin. Temperatures of over 35 C (95 F) are expected across much of the affected area, with the highest temperatures likely in eastern parts of the southern Xinjiang Basin, southern Shaanxi, Hubei, northern Hunan, eastern Sichuan, and Chongqing; highs of 37-39 C (99-102 F) with isolated higher maximums over 40 C (104 F) are possible in these areas. Officials could upgrade, rescind, or expand the coverage of weather 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.