As July unfolds, the Chinese mainland is bracing for significant rainfall across its northern regions. The China Meteorological Administration announced on Thursday that various parts of the country should prepare for heightened weather-related risks this month.
Jia Xiaolong, deputy director of the National Climate Center, stated at a press briefing that precipitation levels in July are anticipated to be “above average” in central and eastern areas. “Some locations may experience a 20-50 percent increase in rainfall compared to previous years,” Jia noted.
The weather outlook also includes the potential formation of one to two typhoons in the South China Sea and the northwest Pacific during July. These developments could exacerbate the rainfall situation, leading to increased concerns over natural disasters.
“There is an elevated risk of flooding and landslides, particularly in the Yangtze River basin and other vulnerable regions,” Jia warned. Authorities are urging local governments and communities to strengthen monitoring and emergency preparedness efforts to mitigate possible impacts.
The forecast comes on the heels of China’s warmest May on record, with the national average temperature reaching 17.7 degrees Celsius—1.2 degrees higher than the long-term average since records began in 1961. June continued this trend of extreme weather, witnessing both record-high temperatures and severe flooding events.
Looking ahead, high temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius are predicted for parts of Jiangsu Province, Anhui Province, Shanghai, and surrounding areas in July. Jia emphasized the importance of agricultural readiness in the face of these conditions. “Farmers should take proactive steps to protect crops from the effects of high temperatures and drought,” he advised. This includes adjusting irrigation schedules and considering heat-resistant crop varieties to safeguard food production.
Drought conditions have also intensified in parts of northern China over June, adding to the agricultural challenges. The combination of heavy rains in some regions and drought in others highlights the complexity of the current climate situation.
At the press briefing, the Blue Book on Climate Change of China 2024 was released, offering insights into climate changes affecting the atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere both in China and globally. The report anticipates an increase in extreme high-temperature events in China amid global warming trends.
“The data underscores the urgency for coordinated efforts to address climate change and its impacts,” Jia remarked. “Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing effective strategies to protect our communities and economies.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
