A comparative analysis of heat waves over two major urban agglomerations in China

Abstract

Heat waves harm human health and adversely impact the natural environment and society, especially in urban regions. Understanding the differences between heat waves in urban agglomerations and their driving mechanisms is essential for sustainable development. In this study, we investigate the spatiotemporal distribution of summertime heat waves and their association with sea surface temperature modes in two of China's most densely populated urban areas: the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) and the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB). The results indicate an increase in the frequency of heat waves for BTH and YREB by 0.02 times a⁻¹ and 0.1 times a⁻¹ and duration by 0.09d a⁻¹ and 0.48d a⁻¹, respectively. Regarding spatial distribution, the duration and frequency of BTH heat waves gradually decreased from northeast to southwest. In contrast, the heat waves in YREB were concentrated in the upper and parts of the lower reaches. The Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation significantly influences heat waves in both the BTH and YREB regions. Nevertheless, the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, Indian Ocean Basin-Wide Index, and Cold-tongue ENSO Index primarily impact heat waves in the YREB region, with limited influence observed in the BTH region. This study provides a scientific basis for accurately identifying heat waves and understanding their changes, assisting decision-makers in formulating mitigation, adaptation strategies, and disaster prevention policies related to heat-induced consequences.