The shelter at No 38 Sipailou Street. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_ea63dc041e9a]

As Hangzhou braces for a scorching July, with temperatures set to soar to 39 C, the city has reopened six upgraded air-raid shelter cooling centers from July 1 through Aug 31.

Part of the city's long-running "Shelters for the People" summer initiative, these underground refuges offer free access to cool air (steady at 25 C), seating, drinking water, Wi-Fi, and new amenities like cinemas, laser shooting games, and reading rooms.

The largest site, located at No 38 Sipailou Street, spans over 3,750 square meters and now includes themed exhibition zones such as a national defense museum and wartime communication bunker experience. An exhibit commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II features over 200 historical photos.

Organized by the Hangzhou national defense mobilization office, the centers are open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. Residents can make reservations and access more info via the "Hangzhou National Defense Mobilization" WeChat account.

Hangzhou's rainy season ended on June 30, with forecasters warning of an intense, dry, and prolonged heatwave throughout July.

Table tennis is available at a shelter in Hangzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_ea63dc041e9a]