Orange Gale Warning Hits Beijing as Extreme Weather Sweeps from North to South
China’s national weather authorities have issued a series of urgent alerts, including orange warnings for gale-force winds and strong convective storms, affecting regions from North China down to the South China Sea. In Beijing, the first citywide orange gale warning in nearly a decade was issued, with gusts exceeding Force 13 recorded in some districts. Operations at major airports, including Beijing Capital International, faced widespread delays and cancellations.
The orange wind alert—China’s second-highest warning tier—signals expected sustained winds of Force 10 or gusts reaching or exceeding Force 11 (over 28 meters per second) within six hours. In places like Mentougou, winds reached Force 14–15, posing a significant risk to outdoor activities, high-altitude work, and structural safety. Authorities have advised the public to secure balconies, avoid temporary structures, and stay clear of trees and signage.
Strong convective weather, including thunderstorms, hail, and heavy rainfall, has impacted provinces like Guangdong, Jiangxi, and Hunan. In Guangdong, a pronounced squall line triggered widespread thunderstorm winds and localized hailstorms. The China Meteorological Administration warned of risks including lightning strikes, property damage, and agricultural loss, urging residents to avoid high elevations and metallic objects during storms.
Meteorologists attribute the extreme conditions to a powerful cold air mass originating from a Mongolian cyclonic vortex, which has driven a frontal system southward through North and South China. This has resulted in both northern sandstorms and southern thunderstorms—different manifestations of the same meteorological phenomenon.
Transportation networks have been heavily affected, with flight cancellations, rail suspensions, and highway closures due to low visibility and flooding. Residents are also grappling with poor air quality, intermittent power outages, and safety risks. Several tourist attractions and museums have suspended operations, and travelers are urged to follow weather advisories and adjust plans accordingly.
