Heat wave sweeping across country could be unprecedented

China is experiencing a relentless heat wave with temperatures forecast to exceed 40 C in parts of the country as residents prepare for the summer season to reach its peak on Sunday.

This week, scorching weather is expected to hit various parts of China, according to a warning issued on China Central Television's National Emergency Broadcasting WeChat account on Monday. In parts of Hebei and Shaanxi provinces, temperatures could surge as high as 42 C, creating sweltering conditions that are challenging historical records for this time of year.

Cities including Zhengzhou in Henan province and Xi'an in Shaanxi province are facing six days of scorching heat, with temperatures expected to exceed 40 C. Zhengzhou may even witness 42 C on Tuesday, a close second to the city's highest recorded temperature of 43 C back in July 1966.