(Clearwisdom.net) Editors' note: Throughout history, the theme that a nation's fate is closely tied to the virtue of its leaders and people has been prevalent in both Chinese and Western culture and lore. Many wise, virtuous kings have led their nations to peace and prosperity, while conversely, moral decay in high places has led to the downfall of great empires. These articles are meant to serve as a reminder and wake-up call for those who are leading or participating in large-scale acts of violence and injustice. As Teacher Li Hongzhi said in Essentials for Further Advancement, "When people do not have virtue, natural calamities and man-made disasters will abound."
1. Many cities in China have experienced continuous high temperatures this summer. The highest thermometer readings in central and eastern China, in areas such as Hebei Province, Shandong Province, and Shanghai City, were above 36oC (97oF). Shandong Province had high temperatures for more than ten consecutive days, with the highest temperature over 42oC (108oF). This phenomenon of a long period of continuous high temperature has not been seen in the past 42 years. The highest temperature of Shijiazhuang City in Hebei Province on July 16 was 38oC (100oF).
2. The continuous high temperature in Chongqing City caused the deaths of five people due to heat stroke. On July 15, the daily electric power consumption for the entire Chongqing City was as high as 69,711,000 KWH, which was the highest electricity consumption for the city in its history. The electric power company had to set mandatory limits for electricity usage.
3. Sichuan Province has experienced rare high temperatures, averaging 38oC (100oF) above previous years. On July 15, the highest temperature in Chengdu City reached 37oC (99oF), and the ground surface temperature reached 60.7oC (141oF). Three hundred policemen suffered heat stroke while on duty.
4. On July 15, unusually hot weather occurred in most areas of Henan Province, with the highest temperature above 38oC (100oF). The temperature on July 15 in Zhengzhou City reached 41.6oC (107oF), which was the hottest day in the city in the past 40 years. The temperature of Henan Province was forecast to continue at these high levels for the near future.