Beijing is enduring its longest cold wave in over seven decades, marking a historic chill since record-keeping began in 1951. The freezing temperatures and substantial snowfall have persisted for days, making it the coldest spell the Chinese capital has faced in more than 300 hours. Notably, the Nanjiao weather station reported the mercury rising above zero degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit) on Sunday afternoon, offering a glimmer of relief.
Nationwide Impact of the Cold Wave
This month, a robust cold wave swept across China, pushing the limits of heating capacity in numerous northern cities. The central province of Henan, in particular, experienced system failures, with Jiaozuo City facing a temporary heating halt due to a malfunction at the Wanfang power plant. Fortunately, the issue was resolved, and heating was expected to resume on Sunday night. In Puyang and Pingdingshan, heating to most government buildings and state-owned enterprises was curtailed to prioritize resources for hospitals, schools, and residential areas.
Transportation Woes and Metro Mishaps in Beijing
The bitter cold in Beijing has not only tested the city’s resilience but also impacted its transportation infrastructure. The city’s metro system faced disruptions, contributing to a challenging commute for hundreds of passengers. Earlier this month, a snowy collision between two trains on a busy metro line resulted in dozens of injuries, sending commuters and fracture victims to hospitals.
Emergency Response Hindered by Harsh
Adding to the challenges, the freezing temperatures complicated rescue efforts in the wake of a deadly earthquake in northwest Gansu province. The extreme weather conditions hampered emergency responses, underscoring the multifaceted impact of the unprecedented cold wave across various aspects of life in China.
As temperatures gradually rise, the nation is hopeful for relief from the harsh winter conditions that have tested its infrastructure, transportation systems, and emergency preparedness.
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