China: Strong dust storm continues to affect northern China May 5

Event

Sandstorms and strong winds in the capital Beijing have reportedly caused some minor material damage and left several people injured as storms continue to affect parts of northern China as of Friday, May 5. Trees were uprooted and crushed vehicles, causing severe traffic jams in downtown areas of Beijing; some shops across the city reported broken windows. On Friday afternoon, the capital's Air Quality Index (AQI) - which measures air pollution in the form of breathable particles (known as Fine Particles PM 2.5) - was at 410 micrograms per cubic meter, down from the 905 reading taken on May 4 but still at a ''hazardous'' level. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), levels over 25 are harmful to human health. Air traffic at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), was disrupted on Thursday (flight delays, cancelations). Further disruptions may occur on May 5 and over the weekend (May 6-7). Additionally, parts of southern China might see a spike in air pollution levels over the weekend as storms move southwards, expected to reach Shanghai on Friday.

Context

Spring is northern China's dust storm season, during which time winds blow across the vast Gobi Desert, picking up fine sand and dust particles and dumping them along a belt of densely populated land further south. This combines with exhaust emissions from coal-burning energy plants, factories, construction sites, and 200 million motor vehicles, 5 million of which are in Beijing alone.

Advice

Individuals present in Beijing and across the affected regions are advised to monitor the situation via local media, follow instructions issued by local authorities, and refrain from nonessential outdoor activities when the AQI is considered elevated. Pollution can be particularly problematic for vulnerable individuals, such as children, seniors, pregnant women, and people suffering from asthma and other respiratory issues. If experiencing breathing difficulties, do not hesitate to seek medical attention, particularly if new symptoms appear (e.g., cough, sore throat, irritated eyes).