A blistering heatwave gripped large parts of China on Friday, with temperatures soaring to dangerous levels across multiple provinces, while the National Meteorological Centre issued warnings for heavy rains and rainstorms in the southwest, signaling a turbulent weather weekend.
The national observatory reported that vast swathes of the country, including Xinjiang, Shaanxi, Shandong, Henan, Anhui, Hubei, and Zhejiang, were baking under temperatures ranging from 37 to 39 degrees Celsius (99 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit). Some areas are expected to see the mercury climb above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), prompting authorities to urge residents to limit outdoor activities and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
“Extreme heat poses serious risks, and we strongly advise staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and seeking cool environments where possible,” the National Meteorological Centre said in a statement.
Meanwhile, a separate rainstorm alert was issued for southwestern and northern regions, with heavy rains and potential thunderstorms expected to lash parts of Sichuan, Yunnan, Gansu, Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, and Beijing from Friday afternoon through Saturday afternoon. Southwestern Sichuan province, in particular, is bracing for intense rainstorms that could lead to localized flooding.
The dual weather threats underscore the challenges facing China as it navigates extreme conditions driven by shifting climate patterns. Authorities have called on local governments to prepare emergency measures, including ensuring proper drainage systems to mitigate flood risks in vulnerable areas.
Residents in affected regions are urged to stay informed through local weather updates and take necessary precautions as the country contends with this potent combination of heat and storms.
