The early arrival of China's "dog days" has left many students scrambling for relief from soaring temperatures, which have surpassed 40C (104F). With dormitories largely lacking adequate cooling facilities, students are frequently opting for hotels, despite the financial burden. A student from Changchun described his makeshift "air-conditioner," utilizing a fan and ice cubes to find some respite.

Recent tragic events have shed light on the poor living conditions faced by university staff and students alike. A dormitory guard's suspected heatstroke death at Qingdao University has sparked discussions about the treatment of those supporting campus operations, while another student suffered a heatstroke and required hospitalization.

This heatwave is not isolated; it coincides with severe flooding and further environmental disruptions across China, linked to climate change concerns. As a result, universities are beginning to recognize the need for air-conditioned facilities, with some institutions already implementing essential upgrades for their dormitories in response to rising demands. As one student expressed, the impact of climate change has made summers in northeast China far more challenging than in years past.