Chinese people seek refuge from heat in metro and shelters

In China’s Chongqing city, the unusual heat is forcing people to find extraordinary solutions. According to Reuters, temperatures in the city have exceeded 40°C over the past week, and are expected to reach 44°C on August 3.

As a result, a red-level heat warning — the highest alert in China — has been issued in 21 districts of Chongqing.

The sharp rise in temperature is seriously affecting residents’ lives. To escape the sun and relieve themselves from the heat, people are turning to unconventional methods:

• Elderly citizens are gathering in metro stations. They spend time in the cool vestibules playing cards and chatting.
• Reconverted bomb shelters are turning into restaurants. Some locals are transforming underground shelters into naturally cool dining places without air conditioners. These spots provide not only meals but also a cool place to relax.

Experts link this situation to climate change and predict that such heat waves will become more frequent in the future.

Charos Zarqarayeva

Editor of «ZAMIN.UZ»