THE city is currently experiencing oppressive heat and humidity, which is expected to intensify in the coming days, according to the Shenzhen Meteorological Observatory.

Over the weekend, Shenzhen is expected to experience both high temperatures and rainfall. However, the rain is likely to increase humidity rather than alleviate the heat.

From Saturday to Monday, the highest temperature is expected to reach 33 degrees Celsius with relative humidity ranging from 75% to 95%.

The weather forecast warns that the combination of high temperatures and high humidity can significantly increase the perceived temperature. For example, when the temperature is 32 degrees Celsius and the humidity reaches 80%, the human body may feel as if the temperature is as high as 45 degrees Celsius.

Meteorologists explain that rain doesn’t always bring significant cooling. For instance, when showers from convective weather fall on scorching hot ground, the raindrops can evaporate very quickly. While evaporation itself is a cooling process, this rapid evaporation can significantly increase the humidity near the surface. This added moisture in the air can make conditions feel even more stifling and muggy. (Mu Zi)