Tourists Flock to Giant Thermometer in China as Death Toll Rises in South Korea and Fires Rage in Greece
July 19, 2023
In a world grappling with extreme weather events, tourists in China flocked to a giant thermometer displaying surface temperatures of 80C (176 Fahrenheit), while South Korea reported a death toll of 44 from heavy rains and Greece continued to battle wildfires for the third consecutive day.
The wildfires on the outskirts of Athens proved to be a challenge for firefighters as they worked tirelessly to protect coastal refineries from the spreading flames. Air water bombers resumed operations at first light, and crews worked throughout the night to contain the fires.
In Beijing, U.S. climate envoy John Kerry embarked on the third day of talks with Chinese officials, expressing hope that cooperation on combatting global warming could redefine the troubled relationship between the two superpowers. Heatwaves across various parts of the world have highlighted the urgent need for action on climate change. The World Meteorological Organization has warned of an increased risk of deaths linked to high temperatures.
Meanwhile, Hawaii’s Big Island braced for the approaching Tropical Storm Calvin, which was expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong wind gusts. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued alerts and advised residents to prepare for the storm’s impact.
In South Korea, torrential rains have caused widespread flooding, resulting in a death toll of 44. The city of Cheongju experienced significant flooding when a river levee collapsed, leading to the submersion of several vehicles. The southeastern province of North Gyeongsang also suffered multiple fatalities due to landslides and strong currents. These casualties have raised concerns about the country’s ability to prevent and respond to flood damage, less than a year after historic downpours in Seoul.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol acknowledged the failures in managing vulnerable areas and lax adherence to rules. He designated 13 flood-hit regions as special disaster zones and called for expedited repair efforts to mitigate further damage.
Curious tourists in China’s Xinjiang province ventured to the Flaming Mountains and marveled at a giant thermometer displaying a surface temperature of 80C (176 Fahrenheit). Every summer, visitors flock to this region to witness the unique heat emanating from the ground. Recent days have seen record-breaking temperatures across Asia, Europe, and the United States.
On Sunday, a township in the Turpan Depression set a new national record for the maximum air temperature in China, reaching 52.2C. The oasis city of Turpan experienced air temperatures exceeding 45C, with some weather stations recording temperatures above 50C. Beijing also broke a local record, logging its 27th consecutive day of temperatures over 35C.
These unprecedented heatwaves have intensified the global urgency to address climate change. Scientists predict that heatwaves will become more frequent, severe, and dangerous if decisive action is not taken. While China braces for extreme heat, other parts of the country are expected to endure heavy rains, thunderstorms, gales, and hail.
With the world’s two largest economies at odds on various issues, Kerry stressed the importance of tackling climate change as a separate matter during his discussions with Chinese officials. He emphasized that climate change poses a universal threat that requires cooperation from all nations.
As the world faces the challenges of extreme weather events, the climate talks between the United States and China hold the potential for progress in combating climate change and protecting the planet for future generations.
Reporting by Ryan Woo and Valerie Vocovici in Beijing and Hyonhee Shin in Seoul; Writing by John Geddie; Editing by Stephen Coates