China's Heatwave Threatens Crop Yields Amid Prolonged High Temperatures

A severe heatwave is sweeping through key agricultural regions in China's north and east, posing a significant threat to crop yields. The prolonged high temperatures will likely crimp yields of summer corn crops, while high humidity may raise the risk of crop diseases.

The affected areas include Liaoning province, which accounts for 7% of national corn output, and Shandong province, where 10% of China's corn production is centered. The heatwave is expected to last through at least Wednesday, with temperatures ranging from mid-30 to high-30 degree Celsius in some regions.

According to Vaisala, a commercial forecaster, the heat stress on corn and soybean crops in Liaoning and Inner Mongolia may be significant. In Xinjiang, where almost all of China's cotton is grown, temperatures are forecasted to reach as high as 50 degree Celsius by August 11.