CHINA has taken a slew of measures to reduce the impact of fiery heatwaves on people’s daily lives as many parts of the country are grappling with scorching temperatures. China’s national observatory Thursday issued an orange alert, the second-highest alert, for heatwaves, and advised the public to avoid outdoor activities during high-temperature periods. Since June, many regions in China, including the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and Shandong, have logged high temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius, and the meteorological departments have issued high-temperature alerts. In southern Beijing, an observatory recorded temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius for three consecutive days for the first time from June 22 to 24. The number of days with temperatures at or above 35 degrees Celsius in China as of July 2 this year is the highest for the same period since 1961, said China’s National Climate Center. The sweltering weather has led to a surge in electricity loads. In particular, 11 regions, such as the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, Shandong and Henan, are experiencing continuous high temperatures, and the peak demand on the whole power grid has arrived ahead of time. Since summer began, the power load has been rising, with the recent peak load exceeding 900 million kilowatts. State Grid Corporation of China, the country’s major power supplier, has ensured stable power generation, increased power supply from various power sources, and strengthened maintenance of the major power grid and inspection of transmission lines. To help people brace for the blistering heat, Chinese authorities have taken active steps. The disease prevention and control bureau under the National Health Commission issued a guideline on preventing the health hazards of heatwaves, advising people to drink enough water and limit time spent outdoors. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security also urged employers to strengthen health checks for employees, adjust their working hours, and improve working conditions. In Beijing, urban management and traffic authorities have increased the frequency of spraying water on the roads to reduce ground surface temperatures. The authorities also used more mechanical equipment to reduce manual work during the hottest time of the day. Across the country, many more outdoor workers have also received proper care. Some delivery service companies and food delivery platforms have set up heat stroke prevention stations, providing delivery workers with sun-proof clothing, beverages and medicines, and optimizing delivery routes to minimize the time they spend outdoors. (Xinhua) | 