China’s northern and central areas have been experiencing a recent historical record-breaking heat wave. This weather has set new all-time, month-of-May temperature records. Linzhou, a city in neighboring Henan province, recorded an astounding high of 43.2 degrees Celsius (109.8 degrees Fahrenheit). At the same time, Shahe in neighbouring northern Hebei province registered a searing 42.9C. These record-breaking temperatures have led many to worry that we may face yet another summer of powerful heat waves.
Across the country, 99 weather stations tied or broke their old all-time high temperature records for May. This is emblematic of a dangerous wave of increasing temperatures nationwide. This record-breaking heat wave has led the CDC to issue new guidance urging Americans to protect themselves from the deadly extreme heat. One official advised residents to “add extra layers of clothing in a timely way as the weather changes, (to avoid) catching a cold.”
Rising Temperatures and Climate Change
These alarming temperature records come on the heels of a series of extreme weather events that have affected China in recent years. Just last year, extreme weather events pummeled key swaths of the country. The subsequent flooding took dozens of lives and required thousands to evacuate. With this May’s extreme heat reminding China that the worst effects of climate change are here and now, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
As the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, China faces immense global pressure to rein in its carbon emissions. The federal government has pledged to peak carbon emissions by the end of this decade, and to reach net-zero emissions by 2060. China is on a tear adding new investments building out wind and solar energy based installations. This decision is part of a plan to address its 80 percent dependence on coal and move toward cleaner energy.
Preparing for Another Hot Summer
Experts fear that this year’s record May temperatures could signal a repeat of last summer’s extreme weather conditions. China is facing its second straight season of extreme heat. Cities including Zhengzhou, the 13-million-capital of central Henan province, are making efforts to reduce the impact of heat waves. Zhengzhou reported a maximum of 41 degrees Celsius during this most recent heat spell.
The union of blistering heat and the successful hurricanes of the recent past magnifies the threat to public health and safety. Officials are calling on Americans to stay alert and avoid travel if possible during this dangerous time.
Beyond these temporary health warnings, the government is prioritizing long-term environmental strategies. On one hand, China’s definitely in favor of climate action, as seen in its extremely ambitious NDC, as well as its goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2060. Economically and environmentally, transitioning from coal to cleaner energy sources is a key step in meeting these ambitious goals.
The Path Ahead
Even as they contend with the most extreme impacts of climate change, Chinese officials are unwavering in their goals to take aggressive steps to curb greenhouse gas emissions. The recent heatwave highlights the urgent need for continued action against climate change and its impacts on both the environment and public health.