China's intense sanfu period has ended, but the heat lingers. Sanfu, which refers to the hottest part of the year in the Chinese calendar, was the second hottest on record.
The sanfu is a traditional Chinese term for the "dog days of summer," a period of three 10-day spans after the summer solstice. This year's sanfu lasted 30 days, from July 20 to August 18, and it was exceptionally hot. The national average temperature reached 23.21 degrees Celsius during this year's sanfu, just below the record set in 2024.
Record-breaking heatwave
The heat wasn't just intense; it was also persistent. Many areas in Xinjiang, Sichuan and Henan experienced over 15 days of extreme temperatures, with some seeing more than 20 days.
Over 100 weather stations recorded new highs for the longest consecutive days of heat. This extended heat was caused by a strong high-pressure system that brought clear skies and warm air.
Heatwave not over yet
Although the sanfu has ended, high temperatures will persist. Over the next week, a high-pressure system will keep much of central and southern China hot. Cities like Hangzhou, Nanjing and Shanghai are expected to experience several more days of extreme heat. Hangzhou could hit 40 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
The system isn't expected to move in August, so southern China will still face hot and humid weather. Authorities advise people to stay hydrated, wear light clothes, and avoid being outside during the hottest times of the day.
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