Northern China has recently experienced significant disruptions due to powerful winds originating from Mongolia.
In light of these conditions, authorities have issued a precautionary advisory recommending that individuals weighing less than 50 kg (110 lbs) remain indoors to ensure their safety.
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Wind gusts reached up to 168 km/h in Henan, and 150 km/h in major cities such as Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei, prompting an orange-level gale alert—the second-highest warning in China’s weather classification system.
This storm, which began on April 11, has necessitated the closure of parks and tourist attractions, impacting several of Beijing’s historical landmarks.
Furthermore, hundreds of flights have been canceled and numerous train services disrupted, while sandstorms have diminished visibility across eight provinces, extending from Inner Mongolia to the Yangtze River.
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In the capital, Beijing, local authorities have taken proactive measures by reinforcing or trimming around 4,800 trees to mitigate hazards; however, some fallen trees have regrettably resulted in damage to vehicles and properties.
The winds, propelled by a low-pressure system from Mongolia, have also led to a notable 12°C drop in temperature in Beijing and even late-season snowfalls in Inner Mongolia.
Meteorologists have cautioned that wind speeds could reach levels 11 to 13 on China’s wind scale, posing a risk for considerable disruption.
While strong spring winds are not uncommon, experts are linking the intensity of this storm to the broader implications of climate change, suggesting that such extreme weather events may become more frequent.
In response to these dangerous conditions, authorities have advised residents to avoid mountainous and forested areas where wind impacts are expected to be most severe. Efforts are underway to clear debris and restore services.
The advisory for those under 50 kg, while unique, underscores the seriousness of the storm and the need to safeguard vulnerable populations.
