26 Jan 2021 | 11:43 AM UTC
China: Winter weather forecast in northern regions through at least Jan. 28
Winter weather forecast to continue in northern Chinese provinces through Jan. 28. Transport disruptions ongoing; confirm reservations.
Event
Winter weather, including heavy snowfall, sleet, freezing rain, and strong wind gusts, is forecast to continue in several northern Chinese provinces through at least Jan. 28. Heavy snowfall has already occurred in central and north Jilin, north and south-central Heilongjiang, northeastern Inner Mongolia, and northeastern Liaoning. The weather system is forecast to bring snowfall to southern and central areas in northern China, including Hebei Province, Jan. 27-28.
Hazardous Conditions
Forecasts indicate that snowfall accumulations of 2-6 cm (0.7-2.4 inches) will occur throughout the affected provinces. Higher snowfall amounts of up to 10 cm (4 inches) are possible in parts of Liaoning, eastern Jilin, and southeastern Heilongjiang provinces. Snow is likely to mix with sleet and freezing rain in southern portions of the affected area. Fog is also forecast throughout much of the region and could reduce visibility. Winds of 38 kph (24 mph) are forecast to continue across much of northeastern China in the coming days, with gusts of up to 74 kph (46 mph) forecast in eastern Inner Mongolia, northern Hebei, Liaoning, and Jilin provinces. Strong winds could cause blizzard conditions in these areas, while gusts in other parts of northern China could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Heavy wet snow and strong winds could bring down power lines and trees with foliage; sporadic power outages are possible.
Transport
Inclement weather is likely to cause ground and air transport disruptions through at least Jan. 28. Authorities often close roads during blizzard conditions, and traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Rail transport interruptions can occur, particularly for regional intercity services. Flight delays and cancellations have already occurred at Shenyang Taoxian International Airport (SHE). Additional flight disruptions are likely at other airports in the region due to ground stops and de-icing operations.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for freight delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area through at least Jan. 28. Confirm flights. Do not leave accommodations without first verifying onward travel. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged electricity outages.
