Strong winds swept across northern China on Saturday, issuing severe weather warnings and extensive disruption to air travel. The gales, which increased overnight, resulted in the cancellation of 699 flights at Beijing’s Capital and Daxing airports by Saturday afternoon.
Meteorological authorities issued orange alerts, the second-highest level on China’s weather warning system, calling people to stay indoors and eschew outdoor activities. Gusts reached alarming velocities, resulting in low visibility, property damage, and interruptions in public transport throughout hit areas.
Beijing’s emergency management teams were put on high alert as trees were uprooted, signboards destroyed, and dust storms amplified the pandemonium. Airports, on the other hand, scrambled to cope with grounded passengers, with most flights either delayed or diverted because of safety issues.
The China Meteorological Administration predicts the strong winds to continue through Sunday, urging the public to prepare for more interruptions and strictly monitor official reports for latest updates.
