Northern China is preparing for an unprecedented weather event as strong winds, reaching speeds of up to 150 kph (93 mph), are set to hit areas like Beijing and Tianjin from Friday through Sunday. Classes have been cancelled, outdoor activities halted, and workers are rushing home in anticipation of the gales.
For the first time in a decade, Beijing has issued an orange alert—its second-highest warning level—for extreme winds, which could be among the strongest the region has experienced in years. As a cold vortex moves southeast from Mongolia, the temperatures are expected to plummet by 13 degrees Celsius in just 24 hours.
The Beijing Meteorological Service has declared this weather episode as "extreme," warning that it will be widespread and potentially disastrous. Winds are anticipated to reach levels 11 to 13 on China's wind speed scale, with level 12 categorized as causing "extreme destruction."
In anticipation of the storm, numerous sporting events—like the world’s first humanoid robot half-marathon—have been postponed, and parks along with tourist attractions are closed. Officials have taken precautionary measures such as reinforcing trees to prevent damage, and residents are cautioned against venturing into mountains due to the dangerous gusts.
On social media, users are sharing their reactions, often humorously, about their foiled weekend plans and the advice that individuals weighing less than 50 kg could be "easily blown away." Hashtags related to the event are trending, revealing the lighter side of a potentially serious situation.
Additionally, an alert for forest fires has been issued, with outdoor burning prohibited. Wind conditions are predicted to begin easing Sunday night, but until then, Chinese residents are advised to stay safe indoors.
