Severe Storms Hit Beijing, Disrupting Daily Life

Beijing is currently facing intense storms that have significantly impacted the daily routines of its residents. The capital city, known for its iconic landmarks, has seen a sharp decline in activity as high winds and severe gusts sweep through its streets. Notably, popular tourist attractions, including the Forbidden City, have closed their doors, affecting thousands of visitors who typically flood these sites on weekends.

As of Saturday morning, over 400 flights were canceled at Beijing Capital International Airport, which had anticipated around 1,200 departures. However, approximately 270 flights managed to take off, according to reports from state-run media.

The weather has caused more than just travel disruptions; numerous trees have been uprooted, and vehicles have suffered damage from falling branches and debris. The usually bustling roads are now notably quieter, with fewer cars and pedestrians navigating the city.

Beijing, home to approximately 20 million residents, experiences storms originating from the arid and steppe regions of northwest China during this time of year. However, this event is particularly noteworthy, as local authorities have issued the second-highest wind warning for the first time in a decade. On Friday, officials advised the public to avoid outdoor activities over the weekend due to the anticipated severity of the weather.

Other areas in northern China, including Hebei Province, Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, and Henan, as well as parts of eastern China, have also been affected by powerful storms. The China Meteorological Administration has forecast wind gusts reaching nearly 150 kilometers per hour in these regions by Sunday morning. Additionally, there are warnings of potential sandstorms that could reach the coastal metropolis of Shanghai.