China warns of 'extreme floods' risk in northwestern desert regions this summer

China's meteorological authorities warned communities in Xinjiang and surrounding regions on Friday to prepare for extreme floods expected this summer, driven by a combination of abnormally high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and accelerated glacier melt in the Tianshan and Kunlun mountains. The Taklamakan Desert, China's largest desert, already experienced its first flood of the year in early June—significantly earlier than the typical August occurrence. On June 12, Xinjiang recorded temperatures 7.3°C above historical averages, reaching 38°C (100°F), while precipitation in some areas reached double or triple the historical average for early June. The intense heat and rainfall have triggered rapid melting of glaciers and snowpack, sending runoff into the Tarim River, China's longest inland waterway, which subsequently burst its banks and flooded low-lying desert areas. While these seasonal floods can temporarily create short-lived oases and provide vital irrigation for local forests, officials emphasized the significant disaster risks, including damage to roads, railways, and oil and gas facilities.