Large areas of China are bracing for a prolonged heat wave that could push temperatures close to or beyond historical records in parts of the northwest. The National Meteorological Center said the most intense stretch is expected between Friday and Wednesday.
In some northwestern areas, daily highs are forecast to reach 41 C to 44 C, with the heat likely to last six to nine days across much of the region. Weather monitoring data already showed several places in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and the Inner Mongolia autonomous region above 40 C on Thursday.
Northwest China Faces the Sharpest Spike
Stations in the Turpan Basin recorded 46.2 C on Thursday afternoon, underscoring how extreme the current conditions have become. The center said those temperatures in parts of Northwest China are approaching or even exceeding historical records.
| Region | Expected Heat Pattern | Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest China | Most intense heat from Friday to Wednesday | 41 C to 44 C |
| Southern North China and Huanghuai | Two rounds of intense heat, Thursday to Saturday and July 9 to 11 | 39 C to 41 C |
| Yangtze River Delta | Gradual warming through July 10 | 35 C to 38 C |
More Heat Is Also Moving East and South
Southern parts of North China and the Huanghuai region, which cover areas around the Yellow River and the Huaihe River, are also expected to endure two rounds of intense heat. Some areas there could see maximum temperatures between 39 C and 41 C.
Meanwhile, eastern parts of the Yangtze River Delta are forecast to warm gradually through July 10, with daily highs generally ranging from 35 C to 38 C. The National Meteorological Center also predicted four major heat waves during July, with more days above 35 C than is typical for this time of year in eastern and central China.
Officials Urge People to Take Heat Precautions
Meteorological authorities have urged residents to follow heat alerts closely and take steps to reduce health risks. Huang Zhuo, deputy director of the National Meteorological Center, advised people to drink plenty of water, use air conditioning or other cooling methods, wear lightweight clothing and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
He also said anyone who experiences dizziness or heart palpitations should cool down immediately with cold water or ice and seek medical attention if symptoms get worse. With several regions facing repeated heat spikes, officials are warning that the country may need to stay alert well beyond the first round of extreme temperatures.
