While most of China is gearing up for warmer temperatures this week, northeastern regions are bracing for heavy snowfall and blizzards. Starting Thursday, temperatures across much of the country are expected to rise, but provinces like Heilongjiang and Inner Mongolia are experiencing a stark contrast.
In Heilongjiang’s Hegang City, snowfall from Tuesday morning to Wednesday morning accumulated to 49.7 millimeters, breaking the local November record. The city’s snow depth reached an astonishing 48 centimeters. Similarly, Heihe City recorded a snow depth of 45 centimeters, the highest since weather observations began there in 1959.
Despite a slight weakening in snowfall, widespread snow is expected to continue in Heilongjiang on Thursday, accompanied by a significant drop in temperatures. Traffic police are on high alert, patrolling highways and national roads every 30 kilometers to monitor snow accumulation and icy conditions. The State Grid Heilongjiang Electric Power Company has deployed drones alongside manual inspections to ensure the power grid operates safely under these extreme conditions.
Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region is also feeling the chill. Since the beginning of the week, temperatures have plummeted, with some areas experiencing lows of minus 18 degrees Celsius. In the Molidawadawoer Autonomous Banner of Hulunbuir, blizzards have led to temporary road closures and school suspensions to keep residents safe.
Local farmers are taking proactive measures to protect their livelihoods. In Tuquan County, a major agricultural hub, farmers like Dong Zhi are battling the elements to safeguard their crops. “Under the guidance of agricultural technicians, I prepared heating blocks and hot-air furnaces in advance and added extra coverings to the greenhouse,” Dong said. “Though it is snowing heavily outside, I feel very secure.”
The National Meteorological Centre forecasts continued snowfall and even heavy blizzards in northeastern Inner Mongolia from Wednesday to Thursday, leading to further temperature declines of 4 to 6 degrees Celsius. As the rest of China warms up, these northern regions remain vigilant against the harsh winter weather.
Reference(s):
NE China still expects snow despite warmer weather forecast elsewhere
cgtn.com
