Heavy Rain Triggers Floods and Landslides in Southern and Central China
Heavy, prolonged rainfall in southern and central China has led to severe weather warnings for flash flooding, landslides, and waterlogging. A slow-moving band of rain spanning 620 miles (1,000 km) traveled eastward across the regions on Tuesday, formed by the convergence of multiple rain bands from the Bay of Bengal, South China Sea, and Pacific Ocean.
Due to low wind speeds, high daily and hourly rainfall totals were recorded. Localized amounts reached 75 mm in Hunan, 85 mm in Anhui within 24 hours, and 95 mm on Hainan Island. The flooding resulted in 12 deaths, with hundreds of residents evacuated by emergency services. Major travel disruptions, electricity outages, and closures of schools and businesses were reported. Social media posts showed submerged cars and people fishing along flooded streets.
Heatwave Conditions in Northern India
Heat warnings have been issued for Delhi and surrounding areas of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and other northern Indian regions. Temperatures above 40°C (104°F) have been widely recorded across northern and central India this week. Some parts of northern India are experiencing nighttime temperatures more than 5°C above the seasonal daytime average. A maximum temperature of 48.2°C was recorded in Banda on Wednesday, followed by 47.6°C on Thursday. Delhi saw 44.4°C on Wednesday and 45.3°C on Thursday.
In rural areas, farmers are working at night to avoid the daytime heat. Authorities advise staying hydrated and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours. These extreme temperatures are linked to lower rainfall this season. Severe heatwave conditions with maximum temperatures above 45°C are expected to persist into next week, lasting until Wednesday when thunderstorms may develop across the north, bringing unsettled weather.
