Chinese Students Seek Refuge from Scorching Heatwave in Libraries and Temporary Camps

In response to unprecedented heat conditions, Chinese students are turning to unconventional solutions like camping in libraries and tents to escape stifling dormitories. Reports of heat-related incidents have intensified scrutiny on living conditions as the nation grapples with climate extremes.

As intense heat gripped eastern China earlier than expected this year, many students found themselves seeking relief from the sweltering temperatures that reached upwards of 40° Celsius (104° Fahrenheit). The onset of the "sanfu" season, or "dog days," typically experienced in mid-July, has left millions of residents unable to cope with the sudden surge in heat.

In a bid to escape the uncomfortable conditions of their dormitories, some students have taken to sleeping in hallways, supermarkets, and even tents. A 20-year-old university student from Changchun shared, “We sometimes go out to stay in hotels for the air-conditioning,” though he acknowledged the financial burden this incurs, prompting some to create their own cooling solutions at home, like using a bowl of ice in front of a fan.

The tragic death of a dormitory guard at Qingdao University is amplifying concerns over the toll of the heat. Estimated to be due to heatstroke, the incident led to tributes and highlighted the challenges faced by both staff and students regarding living conditions in the current climate.

Temperature fluctuations are not new for China, with extreme weather events becoming a pressing issue linked to climate change. A recent report indicated that last summer saw over 50,000 heat-related fatalities. This year's heatwave has led to widespread discomfort and hazardous situations, along with increased demand for air conditioning, which now constitutes over a third of the energy demand in eastern regions.

In light of these conditions, universities have started taking action. Some are providing students with air-conditioned accommodations in libraries, while others, like Qingdao University, announced plans to equip dormitories with air conditioning over summer break, acknowledging how essential these amenities have become for student comfort and safety.

Despite the measures being taken, student sentiment indicates an urgent need for better adaptation strategies against the backdrop of climate escalation. A high school student in Jinan expressed hesitation about attending Qingdao University, primarily due to the heat, stating, “Without air-conditioning, it's too hot to survive.” The issue challenges not only the students but also illustrates the broader implications of climate change that Turkey is facing, calling for responsive environmental policies to safeguard living conditions.