15 Jul 2022 | 08:54 AM UTC
China: Heat warnings in place for southern, central, eastern, and northwestern regions through at least July 17 /update 2
Officials issue heat warnings across central, eastern, northwestern China through at least July 17. Utility disruptions possible.
Event
Officials have issued weather warnings for excessive heat across southeastern, central, and northwestern China through at least July 17. As of early July 15, the China Meteorological Administration has issued orange (second-highest level on a four-tier scale) high-temperature warnings for most of South China, eastern Southwest China, and eastern North China regions as well as Anhui, eastern Guangdong, Hubei, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, southern Shaanxi, and Zhejiang provinces, where temperatures of more than 35 C (95 F) are possible. Higher temperatures of 37-39 C (99-102 F) are likely in central and southern Anhui, most of Chongqing, most of Fujian, northeastern Guizhou, southern Henan, most of Hubei, central and northern Hunan, southern Jiangsu, Jiangxi, southern Shaanxi, Shanghai, eastern Sichuan, and Zhejiang provinces. Locally higher temperatures of more than 40 C (104 F) are possible along the Yangtze River in Chongqing and central and southern Zhejiang provinces. The high temperatures are forecast to persist through at least July 17 before declining July 18-20 due to forecast rainfall. Officials could upgrade or expand the alerts over the coming days as conditions change.
Authorities in Zhejiang Province urged residents and businesses to conserve power July 12 due to increased electricity usage. The energy bureau is rationing power supply to some energy-intensive businesses, including polyester producers and textile printing and dyeing companies in Hangzhou, Shaoxing, and Haining cities.
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.
