BEIJING: China had its hottest month in observed modern history in July, the highest monthly average since the country began compiling comprehensive data in 1961, China’s meteorological authority said.

According to China Central Television (CCTV), the average temperature in China in July reached 23.21 degrees Celsius, surpassing the previous 23.17 degrees Celsius set in July 2017.

All provinces experienced higher-than-normal temperatures, with Guizhou and Yunnan provinces recording their highest temperatures for July. Hunan, Jiangxi, Zhejiang, Fujian, and Tibet recorded their second-highest temperatures.

The meteorological authority has warned that the heat wave is expected to continue into August, particularly affecting the central and southeastern regions of the country. Temperatures are predicted to exceed 40 degrees Celsius in some areas, notably in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai.

This extreme heat is attributed to the strong influence of subtropical high pressure over these regions, leading to the d
evelopment and intensification of hot weather in Jianghai, Jianghuai, Jiangnan, and other areas of China.

Source: Emirates News Agency