Extreme weather hits Asia-Pacific as rainfall and heatwaves intensify

Southern China has been hit by severe rainfall, triggering landslides and flash floods in Guangdong and Guangxi provinces, The Guardian reported. As of 24 May, at least four people were confirmed dead and 17 remain missing, adding to seven previous deaths.

Over 400 emergency workers have been deployed. Heavy rain is forecast to continue across southwestern China, with more than 100mm expected in Guizhou and Hunan, and over 120mm in Zhejiang midweek.

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s South Island faced torrential rain over the weekend, with up to 160mm recorded in some areas. Gale-force winds and mountainous terrain intensified the storm, prompting weather alerts.

Across northern Africa, the Middle East, and southern Asia, a heat dome has pushed temperatures above 50°C, with 50.6°C recorded in Iran. These extremes are 10–15°C above May averages and linked to climate change. Though a slight cooling trend is expected, temperatures in the low to mid-40s are forecast to persist this week.