Beijing issues alerts for snowstorms and road icing

The Beijing Meteorological Bureau has issued a blue alert, the lowest level, for snowstorms and an orange alert, the second-highest, for road icing, with both alerts taking effect on Thursday afternoon, according to the National Meteorological Center.

The city is preparing for its first large snowfall, with snow expected to commence in the western mountainous regions early on Friday. The snow is anticipated to reach urban areas by midday, continuing through the first half of the night.

Forecasters project that most areas will receive over 4 millimeters of snow, while localized mountainous regions in the Fangshan and Mentougou districts could experience up to 8 millimeters.

Due to surface temperatures dropping below zero degrees Celsius, the city is expected to experience road icing from midday on Friday through Saturday, which could significantly impact transportation.

Government and relevant departments are urged to prepare for potential snowstorms and frost damage. Transportation, power, and communication sectors are advised to conduct thorough inspections and maintenance of roads, railways, and electricity lines.

The Beijing Emergency Management Bureau has also advised the public to be careful while walking and take public transportation, while drivers are advised to navigate roads carefully and equip their vehicles with anti-skid measures.