In brief
Severe gusts reaching up to 93 mph disrupt travel in Beijing, prompting warnings for residents to stay indoors as the city braces for continued turbulent weather this weekend.
Hundreds of flights and train services have been significantly disrupted in Beijing and northern China due to powerful winds striking the region on Saturday. By late morning local time, nearly 838 flights were canceled at the city’s main airports, leaving many travelers scrambling. These winds, expected to peak at 93 mph (150 kph), mark the most intense winds seen in Beijing in over fifty years. Attractions and historical sites are closed as residents were advised to remain indoors. Some state media even warned people under 110 pounds could be blown away by the winds.Train services, including the express subway line to the airport, faced suspension while parks were closed for safety reasons. Though preparations were made, around 300 trees have fallen in the city, causing some vehicle damage but thankfully, no injuries were reported. Local responses varied, with one resident noting an unusual quietness in the streets while a stranded businessman found himself rebooking flights due to the chaos.The extreme weather originates from a cold vortex system hovering over Mongolia, and the winds are predicted to last through the weekend. Beijing issued an orange alert, with wind speeds classified between levels 11 and 13, indicating potential for serious and extreme damage, respectively. Residents hope for calmer conditions to return by Sunday.
