China: Periods of air pollution likely to continue in northern provinces through March /update 1

Event

Periods of heavy air pollution are likely in parts of northern China during the late autumn and winter months. Though pollution is usually greatest in areas in and around Hebei Province, including Beijing, periods of significant air pollution also typically occur in parts of Shanxi, Shaanxi, Henan, Shandong, Liaoning, and Inner Mongolia. Air pollution-induced low visibility can lead to ground transport and flight disruptions throughout the affected area. Visibility problems are typically worst from late December to February, but periodic disruptions can occur from mid-November to March. The highest concentrations of air pollution typically occur during periods of extended air stagnation, when pollution produced by industry, residential heating, and automobiles cannot escape the region. Severe pollution levels tend to spike during winter cold spells when many people burn low-quality coal to heat their homes and businesses.

The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) issues air pollution alerts on a four-tier scale:

• Blue (least severe with Air Quality Index over 200)

• Yellow (second least severe with Air Quality Index over 300)

• Orange (second most severe with Air Quality Index over 400)

• Red (most severe with Air Quality Index over 450)

Reduced visibility during periods of severe air pollution may cause transport disruptions. Flight delays may occur at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and other airports in the region, especially during overnight and early morning hours, when relative humidity is high. Air pollution does not typically affect regional high-speed rail, but conventional trains are sometimes forced to operate at reduced speeds. Traffic disruptions resulting from inadequate visibility are also common on highways and secondary roads in the region during periods of severe pollution, including the G3 (Beijing-Taipei Expressway) and the G4 (Beijing-Hong Kong-Macau Expressway).

Periods of hazardous air quality typically prompt officials to implement temporary commercial and transport restrictions. Provincial and municipal officials usually take measures to reduce heavy industry, and sometimes restrict vehicle operations in reaction to severe air pollution. Under a red alert, Beijing authorities restrict private vehicle use within the municipality; officials only permit vehicles with even-numbered plates to drive on even calendar days, and odd-numbered plates on odd days. All large-scale outdoor construction projects also remain suspended during times of severe air pollution. Under previous orange- and red-level alerts, officials throughout the region have also ordered thousands of heavy industry and manufacturing facilities to cease operations until authorities lifted the advisories. Similar policies are likely to be imposed in areas throughout the region during periods of severe pollution. Such measures do not typically lead to severe supply chain disruptions, but some time-sensitive deliveries and orders could be delayed.

Context

Authorities in northern China have implemented policies that have generally reduced regional air pollution in recent years, and many restrictions on high-polluting industries remain in effect. Nevertheless, intermittent periods of severe air pollution remain likely, especially as officials may prioritize industrial activity over air quality as part of efforts to improve economic output amid the global coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Conditions are classified as severe when the concentration of particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) air pollution (airborne particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 microns or smaller - small enough to deeply penetrate the lungs) surpasses 250 micrograms per cubic meter.

Advice

Monitor local air quality alerts and forecasts if operating in northern China. Drive cautiously in areas experiencing low visibility and allow extra time to reach destinations. Plan for possible delivery delays; confirm road conditions before routing shipments through affected areas. Confirm flights during periods of severe pollution; do not check out of hotels before verifying onward travel.

Individuals with preexisting pulmonary problems should carry adequate medication and consult with a physician before traveling to the area. Stay indoors in well-ventilated areas whenever possible and seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms worsen. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of water. Consider using a face mask if prolonged outdoor activity is necessary; only purchase pollution face masks from established retailers.

Resources

National Meteorological Center Haze Forecast
US Embassy Beijing Air Quality Monitor
US Consulate Shenyang Air Quality Monitor