A heatwave continued to hit Sichuan Province in southwestern China, with multiple monitoring stations reporting temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
Since the beginning of this month, 84 monitoring stations, over 54 percent of the total number in the province, have recorded a temperature of over 38 degrees Celsius, while 33 stations recorded over 40 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the temperatures recorded in 78 stations have hit record highs.
"The current heatwave began on July 27. In most areas of the Sichuan Basin, the maximum temperatures have reached 37 to 40 degrees Celsius. From Aug. 3 to 4, the heatwave peaked in the central and eastern parts of the basin, with widespread temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The highest temperature was recorded in Quxian County of Dazhou City, reaching 43 degrees Celsius," said Xiao Dixiang, principal forecaster of Sichuan Provincial Meteorological Service.
Sichuan has issued high temperature warnings for several consecutive days, with a red alert lasting for nine days in Chengdu.
In the coming days, due to increased moisture, the maximum temperatures are expected to slightly decrease. However, the eastern part of the basin is still anticipated to reach 35 to 38 degrees Celsius.
"In urban areas, due to the urban heat island effect, temperatures could be even higher. We advise everyone to continue heat prevention and cooling efforts, especially outdoor workers, who need to pay particular attention to safety," said Xiao.
China has a three-tier warning system for high temperatures, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange and yellow.
Heatwave continues to hit Sichuan
Heatwave continues to hit Sichuan
