As severe weather conditions loom over northern China, with forecasts predicting remarkable wind speeds, officials are taking unprecedented steps to ensure public safety.
China Braces for Historic Winds: Millions Ordered to Stay Indoors
China Braces for Historic Winds: Millions Ordered to Stay Indoors
Northern China is preparing for extreme winds that could reach 150 kph, forcing millions to stay home this weekend.
Authorities across northern China are gearing up for a formidable weather system that is expected to bring winds of up to 150 kilometers per hour (93 mph) from Friday to Sunday. With an orange alert for gales issued for Beijing—the first in a decade—heavy precautions are in place as millions are urged to remain indoors.
State media channels caution that individuals weighing less than 50 kilograms (about 110 pounds) could be at risk of being swept away by winds stronger than the region has witnessed in years, prompting schools to close and various outdoor activities, including sports events, to be canceled or postponed. The threat is associated with a cold vortex moving southeast from Mongolia, indicating a significant weather pattern shift.
Meteorological reports outline a dramatic temperature drop of 13 degrees Celsius expected in Beijing within 24 hours, peaking on Saturday when the most severe winds are anticipated. The Beijing Meteorological Service emphasized that this weather event is “extreme,” affecting a vast region and potentially resulting in damage to infrastructure.
China’s wind classification rates levels from 1 to 17, with winds at level 11 classified as capable of causing "serious damage" and those at level 12 described as "extreme destruction." This weekend’s anticipated winds are projected to reach levels 11 to 13, prompting citywide actions.
In preparation, outdoor events have been suspended, and facilities such as parks and tourist attractions closed. Construction projects are halted, and public transportation services have been limited, while thousands of trees are being reinforced to mitigate safety hazards.
Online, social media platforms are filled with humor amidst the seriousness of the situation, as users joke about their disrupted weekend plans and express relief that the winds will hold off until the workweek is over. Hashtags regarding warnings and the amusing notion of being blown away have gained traction on platforms like Weibo.
Authorities have also issued alerts regarding the risk of forest fires, advising residents against any outdoor flame activities. As the winds are predicted to begin diminishing by Sunday night, the focus remains on public safety and preparedness.
State media channels caution that individuals weighing less than 50 kilograms (about 110 pounds) could be at risk of being swept away by winds stronger than the region has witnessed in years, prompting schools to close and various outdoor activities, including sports events, to be canceled or postponed. The threat is associated with a cold vortex moving southeast from Mongolia, indicating a significant weather pattern shift.
Meteorological reports outline a dramatic temperature drop of 13 degrees Celsius expected in Beijing within 24 hours, peaking on Saturday when the most severe winds are anticipated. The Beijing Meteorological Service emphasized that this weather event is “extreme,” affecting a vast region and potentially resulting in damage to infrastructure.
China’s wind classification rates levels from 1 to 17, with winds at level 11 classified as capable of causing "serious damage" and those at level 12 described as "extreme destruction." This weekend’s anticipated winds are projected to reach levels 11 to 13, prompting citywide actions.
In preparation, outdoor events have been suspended, and facilities such as parks and tourist attractions closed. Construction projects are halted, and public transportation services have been limited, while thousands of trees are being reinforced to mitigate safety hazards.
Online, social media platforms are filled with humor amidst the seriousness of the situation, as users joke about their disrupted weekend plans and express relief that the winds will hold off until the workweek is over. Hashtags regarding warnings and the amusing notion of being blown away have gained traction on platforms like Weibo.
Authorities have also issued alerts regarding the risk of forest fires, advising residents against any outdoor flame activities. As the winds are predicted to begin diminishing by Sunday night, the focus remains on public safety and preparedness.
