As Shanghai finds itself engulfed in a relentless heat wave, residents are gearing up for scorching temperatures that are set to persist in the coming week, with mercury levels expected to reach a sweltering 38 C, as forecasted by the city's weather authority.

The heat wave descended upon the city on July 16, coinciding with the commencement of sanfu, a traditional Chinese term denoting the hottest days of summer.

Sanfu spans three consecutive 10-day periods, typically falling between mid-July and August each year, marking a period where the sun's intensity reaches its peak. This year, the searing season is anticipated to extend for a staggering 30 to 40 days.

With Shanghai ushering in sanfu amidst the ongoing heat wave, a yellow alert for high temperatures was issued on July 16 by the Shanghai Meteorological Service. As the city braces for scorching conditions, local authorities are urging residents to take precautions to safeguard against heat-related ailments such as heat strokes, dehydration, and digestive issues.

In light of the soaring temperatures, the Shanghai Public Security Bureau has advised individuals to conduct safety checks on their vehicles and exercise caution while driving during the heat wave. Ensuring vehicle maintenance and adhering to safe driving practices are crucial measures to mitigate risks associated with extreme heat conditions.

Source: "shanghaifabu" WeChat account