A blistering heatwave swept across northern parts of the Chinese mainland on May 20, sending ground temperatures sky-high and shattering local records.
In Shanxi Province, Yongji City reported a scorching 71.1°C at ground level, while nearby Pingyao City hit 70.3°C. Over in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the surface at Tongxin Railway Station registered 70.1°C.
Yongji’s afternoon peak of 71.5°C marked the second-highest reading ever recorded there—only behind the 71.9°C on June 13, 2024. These extreme readings add to a worrying trend of more frequent and intense heat events around the globe.
Experts point to rising global temperatures and urban heat island effects as key drivers. As young global citizens, we’re witnessing new climate normals that could affect agriculture, energy grids, transportation and day-to-day life.
For travellers and digital nomads planning summer adventures, ground temperatures can far exceed air readings—so pack smart, stay hydrated and seek shaded routes. Entrepreneurs and tech innovators, take note: this is the moment for cutting-edge cooling solutions and resilience planning.
Data snapshot: Over the past decade, days with ground temperatures above 60°C in this region have doubled, underlining the urgent need for adaptive strategies and cross-border collaboration on sustainability.
Stay cool, stay informed, and join the global conversation on building resilient communities in a warming world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
