China's One-Party System Tested by Floods, Heat, and Public Outcry

China's one-party political system is being tested by the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, such as floods and heatwaves. The country's top-down approach may be leaving local authorities ill-equipped to respond to these threats, while the government's focus on economic growth and energy security could exacerbate climate-related disasters. China's own emissions contribute significantly to global greenhouse gases, and the country is experiencing record-high temperatures and intense precipitation events. Despite efforts to upgrade storm water infrastructure and commitments to renewable energy, China continues to invest in coal power. The effectiveness of China's response to extreme weather will depend on translating climate research into concrete action at the local level and prioritizing climate change alongside other policy goals.