Record-breaking heatwave to hit several areas of China

Large swaths of China are expected to endure prolonged and potentially record-breaking heat over the next 10 days. Temperatures in parts of Northwest China are forecast to climb as high as 44 C, the National Meteorological Center said on Thursday.

The most intense heat is expected between Friday and Wednesday, when parts of northwestern China could see daily highs of 41 C to 44 C, approaching or exceeding historical records, the center said.

Weather monitoring data showed several locations in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and the Inner Mongolia autonomous region topped 40 C, with stations in the Turpan Basin recording 46.2 C on Thursday afternoon.

The heat wave is expected to persist for six to nine days across much of northwestern China.

Southern parts of North China and the Huanghuai region, covering areas around the Yellow River and the Huaihe River, are also expected to experience two rounds of intense heat, from Thursday to Saturday, and again from July 9 to 11. Some areas could see maximum temperatures of 39 C to 41 C.

Meanwhile, eastern parts of the Yangtze River Delta are forecast to gradually heat up through July 10, with daily highs generally ranging from 35 C to 38 C.

The National Meteorological Center predicted four major heat waves during July. More days with temperatures of at least 35 C are forecast for eastern and central China than is typical for this time of year.

Meteorological authorities urged residents to closely monitor heat alerts and take precautions to reduce health risks.

Huang Zhuo, deputy director of the National Meteorological Center, advises people to stay hydrated, use air conditioning or other cooling measures to keep indoor temperatures comfortable, wear lightweight clothing and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.

People experiencing symptoms such as dizziness or heart palpitations are advised to cool themselves immediately with cold water or ice and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, Huang said.