Core Points - The article discusses the ongoing high-temperature period affecting regions such as Shaanxi, Henan, and Hubei, with maximum temperatures reaching 37 to 39 degrees Celsius, and some areas exceeding 40 degrees Celsius [1] - It notes that while high temperatures will gradually decrease starting tomorrow, they will remain persistent in areas like the Guanzhong region of Shaanxi and parts of Henan to the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River [1] - The article also mentions that rainfall in Jiangnan and South China will weaken over the next two days, although there will still be sporadic heavy rainfall, and regions like North China and Northeast China will experience frequent thunderstorms [1]

Group 1 - The extreme heat in Spain has resulted in 1,180 deaths from May 16 to July 13, a staggering increase of 1,035% compared to 114 deaths during the same period last year [1][2] - The average temperature in Spain for June was recorded at 23.6 degrees Celsius, surpassing the previous record set in June 2017 by 0.8 degrees Celsius, with expectations of further record-breaking temperatures in July [1] - The first week of July saw a 47% increase in heat-related deaths compared to the total number of deaths in June, indicating a concerning trend [1] Group 2 - Spain's Carlos III Health Institute reported 76 instances of extreme heat warnings in the past two months, a significant rise from zero warnings during the same period last year [2] - Among the 1,180 heat-related deaths, 95% were individuals over 65 years old, with approximately 60% being women, and notably, northern regions of Spain experienced higher death rates due to lower historical temperatures [2] - A report from Imperial College London and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine estimated that around 2,300 people died from heat in 12 European cities, highlighting that many deaths were exacerbated by pre-existing health conditions rather than direct heatstroke [2] Group 3 - Over the past 40 years, improvements in healthcare and increased household income have led to a rise in air conditioning availability in Spain from 5% to 35%, reducing heat-related deaths by one-third [3] - However, the benefits of air conditioning are not equally distributed, with lower socioeconomic groups and outdoor workers being more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat [3]

Core Viewpoint - Climate change is intensifying extreme heat events globally, impacting human health and societal functions, necessitating accelerated adaptation efforts [1][4][6]. Group 1: Global Heat Events - Many countries are experiencing extreme heat, with cities in Croatia reaching temperatures around 37 degrees Celsius, and some exceeding 40 degrees Celsius [2]. - Japan recorded its highest average temperature for June since records began in 1898, with significant heat expected across the country [2]. - South Korea reported an 83.2% year-on-year increase in heat-related medical cases from May 20 to July 6, 2023 [2]. - Slovenia experienced its hottest and driest June on record, with precipitation at only 24% of the average from 1991 to 2020, severely affecting agriculture [2][5]. Group 2: Causes of Extreme Heat - Multiple factors contribute to the recent heat waves, including strong high-pressure systems, prolonged sunshine, and elevated Mediterranean sea temperatures [4]. - Climate change plays a critical role in increasing the frequency, intensity, and duration of extreme heat events [4][5]. - The transition from El Niño to La Niña may also influence weather patterns, contributing to hotter summers in Europe [4]. Group 3: Health and Economic Impacts - Prolonged high temperatures can lead to dehydration, heatstroke, and exacerbate chronic diseases, posing significant health risks [6]. - Governments are issuing warnings and guidelines to protect public health, with measures including real-time heat alerts and adjustments to work schedules [6]. - The heat wave has led to rising prices for agricultural products in South Korea, prompting government intervention to stabilize prices [6]. Group 4: Adaptation Measures - Experts emphasize the need for comprehensive strategies to manage the impacts of rising temperatures, including water resource management and urban greening [7]. - Slovenia is implementing long-term climate adaptation measures across various sectors, including policy planning and infrastructure improvements [7].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the increasing severity and danger of extreme heat waves affecting various regions in China, particularly highlighting the impact on public health and safety [3][12][106]. Group 1: Extreme Heat Impact - The article discusses how extreme heat has become a common experience across northern cities, with temperatures reaching alarming levels, such as 43°C in multiple locations in Shandong [55][50]. - It highlights the sudden onset of high temperatures, catching many residents unprepared, especially in areas with low air conditioning penetration [11][90]. - The article notes that extreme heat is not just uncomfortable but can lead to serious health issues, including heat stroke and even fatalities [80][64]. Group 2: Regional Variations - The article points out that while northern regions are experiencing unprecedented heat, southern regions are also facing their own challenges with high humidity and heat [36][48]. - It mentions specific cities like Beijing and Shandong, where the combination of high temperatures and humidity has created dangerous conditions for residents [17][52]. - The article also references the unusual heat experienced in traditionally cooler areas like Northeast China, where temperatures have soared unexpectedly [28][31]. Group 3: Health Risks and Responses - The article details the symptoms and dangers of heat-related illnesses, particularly heat stroke, which can have a high mortality rate if not treated promptly [80][94]. - It emphasizes the importance of preventive measures, such as staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and utilizing air conditioning where available [99][88]. - The article warns that the frequency of extreme heat events is likely to increase in the future, necessitating greater awareness and preparedness among the public [106][108].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the impact of extreme heat on travel preferences in China, highlighting a shift towards cooler destinations as a new necessity for summer travel [20][21]. Group 1: Travel Trends - There is a significant increase in hotel bookings and ticket sales in cooler regions like Jilin Province, with hotel reservations up by 35%, car rentals by 96%, and ticket sales by 122% compared to last year [22]. - Popular destinations have shifted from traditional summer spots like Sanya and Xiamen to cooler areas such as Changbai Mountain and Yanji, indicating a change in consumer behavior driven by the need for comfort [23][24]. - The demand for cooler travel experiences has led to a surge in prices for accommodations in these regions, with some prices reaching as high as 3,054 yuan per night [30][32]. Group 2: Industry Response - The hospitality industry is adapting to the heat by promoting night tourism, with many museums and attractions extending their hours to attract visitors during cooler evenings [46][49]. - Indoor attractions, such as theme parks and science museums, have become popular as they provide a refuge from the heat, with operators focusing on customer comfort over immediate profit [54][55]. - Marketing strategies have shifted to emphasize the coolness of destinations, with slogans highlighting low temperatures as a key selling point [57]. Group 3: Broader Implications - The article notes that extreme heat is not just a seasonal issue but a growing trend that will affect travel planning and industry strategies in the long term [60][61]. - The changing climate is prompting a reevaluation of travel policies and practices, as families seek to avoid the heat while still enjoying vacations [58][59].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the impact of extreme heat on travel preferences in China, highlighting a shift towards seeking cooler destinations as a new necessity for summer travel [16][35]. Group 1: Changing Travel Preferences - The summer of 2023 has seen a significant increase in interest for cooler travel destinations, with places like Jilin Province experiencing a 35% increase in hotel bookings, 96% in car rentals, and 122% in ticket sales compared to the previous year [17]. - Popular destinations have shifted from traditional hot spots like Sanya and Xiamen to cooler areas such as Changbai Mountain and Yanji, indicating a change in consumer behavior driven by the need for comfort [18][19]. - The demand for cooler climates has led to a surge in prices for accommodations in these regions, with some places seeing prices rise to 3,054 yuan per night [22]. Group 2: Industry Response - The hospitality industry is adapting to the extreme heat by promoting night tourism, with many museums and attractions extending their hours to accommodate visitors seeking cooler experiences [40]. - Indoor attractions, such as theme parks and bookstores, have become popular as refuges from the heat, with businesses focusing on providing a comfortable environment for guests [43]. - Marketing strategies have shifted from emphasizing crowded attractions to highlighting cool temperatures, with slogans like "Refreshing Jilin: 22°C in summer" becoming common [44]. Group 3: Long-term Considerations - The article suggests that extreme weather patterns may become the new normal, prompting a reevaluation of vacation policies to allow for more flexible travel options throughout the year [45][47]. - The need for families to travel during peak summer months, despite the heat, raises questions about the feasibility of staggered vacation schedules to alleviate pressure on the tourism industry [46].

Group 1 - The World Meteorological Organization reported extreme high temperatures sweeping across Europe, leading to increased air pollution and heightened wildfire risks, severely impacting daily life for residents [1] - In June, many regions in Europe experienced record high temperatures, with the abnormality not only in intensity but also in the timing, as extreme heat typically occurs in the peak summer months [1] - Other regions including parts of the Americas, Africa, and Asia are also experiencing temperatures significantly above average, while countries in the Southern Hemisphere such as Argentina, Chile, and Paraguay faced record cold waves in June [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the unprecedented extreme heat experienced in June and early July across Europe and Asia, indicating a shift towards a new normal of extreme temperatures due to climate change [1][9][10] Summary by Sections Extreme Heat in June - Spain recorded an average temperature of 23.6 degrees Celsius in June, breaking historical records and exceeding typical July and August averages [2] - England experienced its second hottest June since records began in 1884, with an average temperature of 16.9 degrees Celsius [2] - The extreme heat is attributed to a "heat dome" phenomenon, which traps hot air and leads to prolonged periods of high temperatures [2][3] Record-Breaking Temperatures - Spain's southwestern region of El Granado reached an extreme temperature of 46 degrees Celsius on June 28, potentially setting a new record for June [4] - Lisbon, Portugal, recorded 46.6 degrees Celsius on June 29, marking the highest temperature for June in mainland Portugal [5] - France issued warnings for temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, leading to the closure of nearly 1,900 schools [5] Impact on Landmarks and Public Safety - The Eiffel Tower in Paris closed its observation deck due to extreme heat, and the region issued a red alert for high temperatures [6] - The Atomium in Brussels also reduced its opening hours due to the heat, marking only the second occurrence of such a measure [6] Future Weather Outlook - A forecast for rain and significant cooling is expected in many parts of Europe, providing temporary relief from the extreme heat [8] Climate Change Implications - UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that extreme heat is becoming the new normal, emphasizing the urgent need for more ambitious climate action [9] - The director of the Copernicus Climate Change Service noted that Europe is experiencing unprecedented heat, which is expected to become more frequent and intense due to climate change [10]

Group 1 - France has issued an orange heatwave alert for 84 provinces as temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius, with some areas reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius [1] - The current heatwave has been ongoing since June 19, with July 1 expected to be the hottest day, potentially reaching 41 degrees Celsius in some regions [1] - France has implemented measures such as shutting down nuclear reactors, school holidays, and flexible working hours on construction sites to cope with the heat [1] Group 2 - Portugal has recorded a new high temperature of 46.6 degrees Celsius in Mora, breaking the previous June record of 44.9 degrees Celsius set in 2017 [2] - The heatwave in Portugal is expected to continue, particularly in inland areas, despite a slight temperature drop forecasted from June 30 [2] - The highest historical temperature in Portugal was recorded at 47.3 degrees Celsius in 2003, and currently, 80 cities face the highest level of fire risk due to the hot and dry weather [3]

Core Viewpoint - Germany is experiencing extreme high temperatures, with forecasts indicating temperatures reaching between 30 to 38 degrees Celsius, and some areas potentially exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, impacting various sectors including shipping along the Rhine River [1] Group 1: Weather Impact - The German Meteorological Service has issued warnings for "strong heat load" in the western and southwestern regions, with specific areas in North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Württemberg facing "extreme heat" risks [1] - Coastal and central highland areas are among the few regions expected to remain below 30 degrees Celsius [1] Group 2: Shipping Industry Effects - The Rhine River, a crucial waterway for shipping, is experiencing disruptions due to low water levels, which are hindering navigation [1] - Cargo ships are limited to operating at half capacity in several river sections south of Duisburg and Cologne, leading to increased operational costs [1] - Multiple shipping companies have raised additional freight charges to offset the increased costs associated with these disruptions [1]