According to weather services and media reports, Beijing experienced the hottest June since temperatures began to be recorded, with much of northern China seeing thermometers exceed 40ºC. Scientists say China has faced extreme weather conditions and unusually high temperatures in recent months, exacerbated by climate change.
At the Nanjiao weather station south of Beijing, a temperature of 41.1ºC was reached at 3:19 p.m. Thursday, surpassing the previous record of 40.6ºC recorded in June 1961 by half a degree. Other weather stations around the capital also recorded even higher temperatures, such as Tanghekou, north of Beijing, which reached 41.8ºC, making it the hottest place in the country.
In the neighboring city of Tianjin, with a population of more than 13 million, temperatures also soared, with the Xiqing district experiencing its hottest day in June at 40.6ºC. In view of this situation, authorities have urged people to limit their time outdoors, as high temperatures are expected in the coming days.
The meteorological services in Beijing and Tianjin issued an orange alert for intense heat, which is the second highest level. These extreme heat conditions are cause for concern and highlight the need to address climate change.