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Severe Weather Disrupts Life in Beijing with High Winds and Sandstorms

On Saturday, Beijing faced significant disruptions due to powerful winds and the looming threat of sandstorms, leading to the cancellation of hundreds of flights and the closure of public parks. The intense gusts uprooted numerous trees, damaging vehicles and older buildings throughout the city.

By 2 p.m. local time, both of Beijing’s major international airports, Beijing Capital International Airport and Daxing International Airport, had canceled a total of 693 flights. Meteorological authorities issued warnings of worsening conditions, particularly in northern China and along its coastal regions.

There were also widespread cancellations of flights and train services in other areas of the country. Several provinces experienced some of the strongest winds seen in over 75 years, reaching speeds of up to 148 km/h (92 mph).

In the capital, key attractions such as the Universal Studios theme park remained closed through at least Sunday, alongside historic sites like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven. Various outdoor events, including football matches, were also suspended in light of the adverse weather conditions.

Understanding the Causes of Sandstorms

High winds and resulting sandstorms are typically prevalent in China’s dry northern regions, where the Gobi and Taklamakan Deserts are bordered by grasslands, mountains, and forests. The country has been engaged in a long-term effort to mitigate the effects of these sandstorms, particularly in Beijing, which is adjacent to arid areas. Such storms can drastically reduce visibility, often near zero, while inundating buildings and clothing with sand, simultaneously causing discomfort to residents.

A notable incident occurred in 2021 when a sandstorm, described as the most severe in a decade, cast a yellow hue over the skies of Beijing. The city’s government responded by canceling outdoor sports and events in schools and urged citizens to remain indoors, resulting in extensive flight cancellations.

Impact of External Conditions

Weather agencies attribute the current poor air quality in Beijing to a sandstorm originating from northern Mongolia, where it reportedly led to fatalities. The storm’s debris has been transported southward by strong winds, significantly reducing visibility in Beijing to under 500 meters.

This series of weather events spotlights the ongoing challenges faced by urban areas in managing the impacts of natural phenomena, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and responsive public safety measures.

Source
www.cbsnews.com