Flights Cancelled and Trains Halted as Powerful Winds Hit Beijing and Northern China

Fierce gusts wreaked havoc in Beijing and northern China on Saturday, resulting in the cancellation of numerous flights and the suspension of train services. By 11:30 AM local time (03:30 GMT), 838 flights had been called off at Beijing’s two primary airports, as reported by Reuters. Winds reaching speeds of up to 93 mph (150 kph) – the most intense seen in the capital in over fifty years – are forecasted to persist throughout the weekend. As a precaution, various attractions and historic sites were closed.

On Friday, millions received advisories to remain indoors, with some state media humorously cautioning that individuals under 50 kg in weight might be “easily blown away.” The adverse weather conditions led to the suspension of train services, including the express subway line to the airport and several high-speed rail routes. Parks were also off-limits, with older trees being either reinforced or trimmed, yet close to 300 trees had already toppled. Although vehicular damage was reported, there were no injuries.

Despite the city advising its 22 million residents to limit non-essential travel, most complied by staying indoors. “There was a palpable sense of unease in Beijing. The streets are nearly empty, though the situation wasn’t as severe as I had feared,” a local resident shared with Reuters. Meanwhile, a businessman from Zhejiang province, located near Shanghai, found his return flight cancelled. “All flights scheduled for last night and today were called off due to the fierce winds. I’ll likely need to rebook in a couple of days - I’m now essentially stranded in Beijing,” he explained.

The mighty winds are being driven by a cold vortex system over Mongolia, anticipated to continue through the weekend. Spring typically brings winds that carry sand and dust from Mongolia, but climate change may intensify storms. Beijing issued its first orange alert for high winds in a decade, with peak intensity expected on Saturday. China’s wind scale ranges from one to 17, with level 11 capable of causing “serious damage” and level 12 resulting in “extreme destruction.” Winds this weekend are expected to fluctuate between levels 11 and 13, with conditions likely easing by Sunday.