Millions in northern China are preparing to stay indoors as powerful winds are set to sweep through the region this weekend.
With gusts expected to reach speeds rarely seen in recent years, cities like Beijing, Tianjin, and areas in Hebei province are taking swift action to protect people and property.
The warning was issued as a cold air system from Mongolia moves southeast, bringing unusually strong winds. In response, local authorities have raised alerts and suspended outdoor activities. Weather services have flagged this event as particularly intense, predicting wind levels between 11 and 13 on China’s wind scale. This level of wind can break tree branches, damage buildings, and disrupt daily life.
Communities affected by the forecast have already started taking precautions. Public parks and tourist attractions have been closed, school classes paused, and outdoor work sites shut down. Organizers have also delayed several events, including a humanoid robot half-marathon. Emergency crews have trimmed or reinforced trees around the cities to prevent accidents.
In Beijing, wind speeds may peak around 150 kilometers per hour, leading to a sharp temperature drop of around 13 degrees Celsius within a single day. The weather shift is expected to cause disruptions, especially in areas near mountains and forests. Travel has been discouraged, and fire risks have prompted bans on outdoor burning.
Warnings have been shared across state media, advising residents to stay inside as much as possible. Train services may be limited or canceled, and residents are being asked to delay any non-essential travel plans. Despite the seriousness of the situation, many online users are reacting with humor, sharing light-hearted posts about their weekend plans being canceled.
The extreme weather is expected to ease by Sunday night. Until then, northern China remains on high alert as authorities continue to monitor conditions and enforce safety measures to minimize harm.