Strong Winds, Sandstorms Hit Beijing

Powerful winds and sandstorms swept through Beijing on Saturday afternoon, triggering a sharp rise in air pollution levels and forcing temporary closures of outdoor attractions and public events.

According to municipal meteorological services, concentrations of PM10 particulate matter averaged 175 micrograms per cubic meter by midafternoon, reaching a level classified as light pollution. Forecasters warned that peak levels could exceed 500 micrograms per cubic meter, entering the severe pollution category.

Authorities issued a yellow alert for strong winds and a blue alert for sandstorms, prompting the suspension of some outdoor tourist sites and Lunar New Year celebrations from Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning.

Weather officials expect wind speeds in Beijing to weaken on Monday, the final day of the holiday period.

China’s National Meteorological Center said several northern regions are forecast to experience strong winds and sandstorms from Friday through Sunday. A Level IV emergency response for major meteorological disasters has been activated.

The severe weather also disrupted transportation. Passenger ferry services on the cross-sea route between Liaoning and Shandong were suspended from Saturday noon due to hazardous wind conditions. Local maritime authorities said services are expected to resume gradually on Sunday.