In an unprecedented weather event, students in China are seeking relief from a brutal heatwave that has left millions in discomfort. With temperatures soaring above 40C (104F), many have resorted to unconventional locations for sleep, such as libraries, air-conditioned hallways, and even neighboring supermarkets. The “dog days” of summer, heralded by excessive heat, have prompted dire warnings from authorities and have unveiled the effects of climate change on the student population.
Chinese Students Find Relief from Heatwave in Libraries and Tents
Chinese Students Find Relief from Heatwave in Libraries and Tents
As extreme temperatures grip eastern China, students seek cooler alternatives to dorm living.
Authorities in eastern China issued warnings as the notoriously hot "sanfu" season started earlier than usual this year, leaving students uncomfortable in their crowded dormitories that lack adequate air conditioning. Many students have opted for hotels, despite the expenses, while clever tactics like using small fans and ice bowls have become common makeshift solutions.
The health risks of extreme temperatures were starkly illustrated by the recent death of a dormitory guard at Qingdao University, attributed to potential heatstroke. This tragic incident raised concerns over campus living conditions and prompted discussions on how universities treat both students and staff. Following the incident, social media has been abuzz with tributes for the guard, who was affectionately known as the dormitory “uncle” for his nurturing role, especially towards stray cats on campus.
As the country grapples with rising temperatures, experts link this oppressive heat to the wider reality of climate change. A stark comparison has been made between the current rising heat and previous years, highlighting increasingly severe extremes. Recent years have seen tragic outcomes from such conditions; for example, last year alone caused over 50,000 heat-related deaths, prompting students across China to express alarm over their rapidly changing summers.
To cope, students have taken innovative measures. Reports have surfaced of students sleeping in air-conditioned hallways and making the most of available library spaces. Some universities have responded by planning to introduce air conditioning into dormitories, recognizing it as a necessity for student wellbeing.
In light of record electricity demand due to widespread air conditioning usage, energy authorities reported that air conditioning accounted for a significant portion of grid demand as the country remains in the grips of a summer heatwave.
For students like a teenager contemplating attending Qingdao University, plans for air-conditioned dormitories may sway decisions regarding their future education. As extreme summer weather persists, many are just looking for comfortable, adequately-cooled locations to endure this scorching season, whilst calling attention to the pressing need for climate action as weather patterns continue to evolve.
The health risks of extreme temperatures were starkly illustrated by the recent death of a dormitory guard at Qingdao University, attributed to potential heatstroke. This tragic incident raised concerns over campus living conditions and prompted discussions on how universities treat both students and staff. Following the incident, social media has been abuzz with tributes for the guard, who was affectionately known as the dormitory “uncle” for his nurturing role, especially towards stray cats on campus.
As the country grapples with rising temperatures, experts link this oppressive heat to the wider reality of climate change. A stark comparison has been made between the current rising heat and previous years, highlighting increasingly severe extremes. Recent years have seen tragic outcomes from such conditions; for example, last year alone caused over 50,000 heat-related deaths, prompting students across China to express alarm over their rapidly changing summers.
To cope, students have taken innovative measures. Reports have surfaced of students sleeping in air-conditioned hallways and making the most of available library spaces. Some universities have responded by planning to introduce air conditioning into dormitories, recognizing it as a necessity for student wellbeing.
In light of record electricity demand due to widespread air conditioning usage, energy authorities reported that air conditioning accounted for a significant portion of grid demand as the country remains in the grips of a summer heatwave.
For students like a teenager contemplating attending Qingdao University, plans for air-conditioned dormitories may sway decisions regarding their future education. As extreme summer weather persists, many are just looking for comfortable, adequately-cooled locations to endure this scorching season, whilst calling attention to the pressing need for climate action as weather patterns continue to evolve.
