Beijing: Authorities in northern China have issued a high-level alert for extremely strong winds expected over the weekend, warning that gusts may be powerful enough to lift people weighing under 50 kilograms off the ground.
Millions of residents have been advised to remain indoors as powerful winds, driven by a cold vortex moving southeast from Mongolia, are set to sweep across Beijing, Tianjin, and parts of Hebei province. Wind speeds could reach up to 150 km/h.
In response, Beijing has issued an orange alert for gales—its first in a decade—signifying the second-highest level on the country's four-tier weather warning system. Though strong winds from Mongolia are typical this time of year, officials warn that this storm could bring the most severe gusts seen in years.
Meteorologists forecast a sharp drop of up to 13°C in Beijing within 24 hours as the cold front moves in on Saturday. Beijing’s Meteorological Service described the incoming winds as “extremely strong, long-lasting, widespread, and highly destructive.”
According to the China Meteorological Administration, wind strength is measured on a scale from 1 to 17. Winds at level 11 can cause "serious damage," while level 12 and above can lead to "severe destruction." The weekend winds are predicted to reach levels 11 to 13.
In light of the forecast, authorities have suspended multiple outdoor activities, including several sports events such as the world’s first humanoid robot half-marathon, which has now been rescheduled for April 19. Parks and tourist attractions have been closed, and construction work and train services temporarily halted.
Efforts are underway across the capital to reinforce or trim thousands of trees to prevent them from falling. Residents are also advised to avoid mountainous or forested areas due to elevated wind risk.
Additionally, a forest fire warning has been issued in Beijing, with officials urging the public to avoid outdoor fires.
Meanwhile, Chinese social media users have responded with humor, as hashtags about the wind alert and the warning for people under 50kg have gone viral.
One user on Weibo joked, “This is why I eat so much—just for days like this.” Another remarked, “This wind is really considerate—it starts Friday evening and ends Sunday night, without interfering with work on Monday.”
Authorities expect wind speeds to begin subsiding by Sunday night.
