Beijing and northern China are currently experiencing severe typhoon-like winds, leading to widespread disruptions. The gales, reaching speeds up to 150 kph (93 mph), are the strongest recorded in over 75 years and are expected to continue through the weekend.
Key Impacts:
- Travel Disruptions: Nearly 700 flights have been canceled at Beijing’s two major airports. Train services, including the airport express subway line and some high-speed rail lines, have been suspended.
- Public Safety Measures: Authorities have closed public parks and popular tourist sites, including the Forbidden City and Universal Studios. Residents have been advised to stay indoors, with warnings that individuals weighing less than 50kg may be “easily blown away.”
- Environmental Effects: The strong winds have uprooted hundreds of trees, damaging vehicles and older buildings across the capital. Sandstorms originating from Mongolia are contributing to reduced visibility and air quality issues.
These extreme weather conditions are attributed to a cold vortex system over Mongolia, exacerbated by climate change, which is making such storms more severe and unpredictable
