High winds sweep Beijing, prompt warnings and travel chaos

Cold vortex System behind potentially record-breaking winds

The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) attributed the strong winds to a "cold vortex system" originating over Mongolia. This weather system began moving across northern China on Friday and is expected to last through the weekend.

"The strongest winds are expected during the daytime of April 12," the CMA stated, noting that wind speeds at certain observation stations could reach or exceed historical records set since 1951.

Public safety alerts and travel disruptions

Residents in affected areas were advised to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary. For the first time in a decade, Beijing issued an orange alert—the second-highest warning level—for strong winds.

By Saturday afternoon, 699 flights had been cancelled at the city's two major airports. Additionally, services on multiple high-speed rail lines were temporarily suspended.

Tourist sites and events postponed

Several major tourist attractions, including the Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Beijing Zoo, and Universal Studios Beijing, were closed due to safety concerns.

Authorities also postponed a scheduled half-marathon, which was to include a race featuring humanoid robots.

Damage reported, but no injuries yet

Nearly 300 trees were uprooted and 19 vehicles damaged in Beijing as a result of the strong winds, CCTV reported. However, there have been no reports of injuries in the capital so far.

Extreme weather tied to climate change

China, the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases, has been experiencing more frequent and intense extreme weather events, which scientists attribute to climate change.

Last year, severe flooding and storms across the country resulted in dozens of deaths and mass evacuations. In May, a highway collapse in southern China caused by days of rain killed 48 people.