Scorching heat expected to resume baking China this week

BEIJING (REUTERS) - Searing summer heatwaves are expected to return this week across large parts of China, lasting through late August, the state weather forecaster said, despite brief interludes of seasonal rain.

Temperatures from 39 deg C to 42 deg C are expected in the southern region after July 20, including the provinces of Jiangxi, Zhejiang and Fujian, the China Meterological Administration said on Sunday (July 18).

Despite some weekend respite for provinces such as Hebei, Hunan, Hubei, Guizhou and Jiangxi, maximum temperatures elsewhere are expected to hover over 37 deg C.

The sweltering heat will last from July 16 to Aug 24 nationwide for an "extended period" of 40 days, up from the usual 30, the forecaster said on its website.

The so-called "sanfu", or "three periods of laying low" during China's summer refers to three annual 10-day stretches between July and August when temperatures and humidity peak.

But this year, the second phase is expected to run for 20 days from July 26 to Aug. 14, the forecaster said.

China has broiled in average temperatures of about 35 deg C for the past two weeks, bringing buckled roads and more hospital visits because of heat stroke, sparking discussion on social media.

Heat waves have gripped several nations as raging forest fires sweep parts of Europe. Temperatures on the United States' west and south-east coasts have regularly hit 40 deg C to 45 deg C for several days.

On Monday, the Hong Kong observatory again warned of very hot weather in the global financial hub.

Chinese forecasters said the number of cities with high temperatures has gradually increased over the past 30 years.

Many experts blame persistent high temperatures on global climate change.