China is currently experiencing a dramatic contrast in weather conditions, with the capital city of Beijing enduring a prolonged heatwave while the central province of Hunan battles severe flooding. Beijing recently recorded nearly 10 consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 95°F (35°C), a phenomenon unseen since 1961. This extended period of intense heat is particularly challenging given that many residents lacked access to air conditioning or fans during the last such occurrence. The lack of rainfall this year, even less than the typically dry capital usually receives, may be exacerbating the high temperatures.

While Beijing experienced a slight reprieve with temperatures dipping to 91°F (32.2°C), forecasts predict a resurgence of heat later this week, potentially reaching 103°F (39.4°C) in the capital and other regions. In stark contrast, heavy flooding in Hunan province has forced the emergency evacuation of over 10,000 residents. The flooding has resulted in significant damage, with approximately 70 houses collapsing and over 2,200 sustaining damage. Agricultural lands have also been inundated, and initial estimates place the economic losses at a minimum of $79 million. Zhenba county in Shaanxi province, north of Hunan, has also reported devastating floods, described as the worst in 50 years, leading to road closures and property damage.

While no fatalities have been reported from the floods, the situation remains critical. Although summer flooding is a recurring issue in China, this year's heatwave is unusual in its intensity and duration. Heavy rainfall is expected to continue in the coming days across eleven provinces, primarily in the southern part of the country. This widespread flooding follows the devastating 2021 floods in Henan province, which claimed over 300 lives, and serves as a reminder of the 1998 floods, the deadliest in recent history, where over 4,150 people perished, mostly along the Yangtze River.

A security guard finds relief from the scorching heat with a portable fan in Beijing on July 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)