China Faces Extreme Weather Fury

Record Heatwaves and Devastating Floods Strike Across Nation

Parts of China are grappling with severe weather this summer, experiencing scorching heatwaves in the east and widespread flooding in southwestern regions.

Mass Evacuations Amidst Torrential Rain

In Baoding city, Hebei province, approximately 20,000 residents were forced to leave their homes last week. One county in the region reportedly received nearly a year’s rainfall in a single day, causing significant disruption.

Government Pledges Millions for Repairs

Authorities have committed 50 million yuan (approximately $7 million USD or £5.2 million GBP) to repair infrastructure damaged by recent heavy rains in northern China. Relief supplies have also been dispatched to the provinces of Shaanxi and Hebei, which have been significantly impacted.

Extreme Conditions Highlight Climate Vulnerability

The intense weather events underscore China’s vulnerability to climate change. According to the National Climate Centre, China’s average temperature in June 2023 was 21.4°C (70.5°F), 1.0°C (1.8°F) above the same month’s average from 1991-2020, setting a new record for the month (Reuters, July 2023).