Temperatures in Beijing, China, reached a record high of 106.4 degrees Fahrenheit (41.2 degrees Celsius) on Wednesday, making it the hottest day ever recorded in the month of June. The previous record was established in the year 1958.
The current heat wave may be attributed to a confluence of variables, the most prominent of which are the presence of a high-pressure system over northern China and the absence of rain.
The absence of rain combined with the high-pressure system that is now encompassing the area is preventing the surface of the ground from cooling down during the evening hours.
The heat wave has made life difficult for many people and created considerable disruption. The schools are closed, and several businesses have rescheduled their opening and closing times. A red alert, which is the highest degree of warning that can be issued, has also been issued by the government in response to the heat wave.
It is anticipated that the heat wave will continue for at least the next several days. The National Weather Service predicts that temperatures will continue to hover over 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit) into the weekend.
The recent heat wave serves as a timely reminder of the difficulties brought about by climate change. China is one of the nations that are most at risk from the consequences of climate change, and the country is already seeing the effects of its temperatures continuing to rise. The recent heat wave is fresh evidence that China and the rest of the globe are facing a significant risk from climate change.