❄️ Heads up, winter warriors! Since Tuesday, the Chinese mainland's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has been blanketed by a fierce blizzard that's turning roads into skating rinks and setting temps as low as -15°C.
In Urumqi, heavy snow slowed traffic to a crawl. Sanitation crews and snowplows are on 24/7 shifts, while traffic police led by Qin Jianbo have activated a Level-1 emergency (the highest alert for severe weather) to keep key roads safe.
Westward in Shihezi, snow-clearing is a well-oiled machine: big plows work in squads and smaller machines tackle sidewalks. Where machines can’t reach, sanitation teams are shoveling snow by hand.
Transport networks are feeling the freeze, too. Parts of major highways are under traffic control, and many passenger trains were canceled starting Wednesday. At Urumqi’s main stations, anti-slip mats and warmer waiting halls are helping travelers stay safe and comfy.
The cold snap has plunged minimum temps to between -10°C and -15°C across the region. Heating providers like Urumqi Huayuan Heating Co. have cranked up output, ensuring indoor temps stay above 20°C.
And the forecast? More snow’s on the way, so plan ahead! Check local updates on WeChat or traffic apps before you head out, and stay warm with hot drinks and cozy layers. Stay safe, folks! ☕🧥
Reference(s):
Cold front hit: Blizzard hits Xinjiang in NW China, impacts transport
cgtn.com
