Guangdong stepped into Minor Heat on July 7—a marker that ushers in summer's most intense heat, though not yet its peak. Breezes now carry warmth even at dawn, and the air hangs thick with moisture, wrapping the region in a damp, shimmering haze.
Guangzhou is expected to experience three heatwaves this month (July 2–6, 17–19, and 24–26), with temperatures anticipated to average 29.5 °C. More alarming are hints of 41°C highs later this summer, a heat not seen in decades.
Yet rain will slice through the swelter. Five heavy downpours are forecasted, one around July 8–10 and another late in the month. By the end of July, rain gauges may collect 270mm of water, 20% more than usual. A tropical cyclone also churns toward the coast, threatening winds and waves.
Health experts urge a return to old rhythms. Markets brim with winter melon and lotus root—foods praised by Tang dynasty poets for "draining heat and dampness." Doctors echo this wisdom: "Eat what the earth offers in season," they advise, suggesting chilled congee or bitter gourd to gently cool the body. At community clinics, herbalists blend herbal tea with chrysanthemum and mint, served in clay cups to elders resting in shaded courtyards.
The Minor Heat period traditionally represents the precursor to Major Heat (大暑) later in July. Seasonal records indicate this phase typically brings the most sustained high temperatures annually to southern China.
Author: Feng Huiting
Poster: Feng Huiting
Editor: Huang Qini, James, Shen He
