Severe weather warnings have been issued for Hangzhou as meteorological authorities anticipate strong convective weather conditions, characterized by heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds, starting from the evening of March 2nd through to March 3rd. The local meteorological station has urged residents to stay vigilant as historical weather events suggest these conditions could be intense.
According to the latest reports, the temperature in Hangzhou on March 1st began pleasantly, with early morning lows around 13.0°C rising to approximately 28°C by noon. Such warmth, coupled with gentle southern winds, has misled some to believe the transition to spring is smooth. Yet, history tells another story. Particularly, March often brings extreme weather fluctuations, swinging from warm temperatures to cold snaps.
This year's first severe weather alert was highlighted due to the potential of thunderstorms reminiscent of those witnessed during the record-breaking heat of March 4, 2018, when temperatures soared to 30.1°C. Nearby areas experienced chaotic weather patterns, including severe winds and torrential rains reaching 13 levels on the Beaufort scale.
The Hangzhou meteorological service's upgrade of the severe weather warning entails expectations for rapid climate changes, indicating the arrival of cold air masses. These will cause temperature drops of about 10 to 12 degrees Celsius; localized areas might even experience declines exceeding 13 degrees Celsius. Forecast models suggest nighttime temperatures for early March could slip to lows of 3-5 degrees Celsius.
"Prepare accordingly, as the spring peak warmth may be short-lived. After the warmth, we may see temperatures drop substantially, marking another year of significant weather volatility," warned meteorologist Chen Wei from the Hangzhou Meteorological Station.
Residents are encouraged to take precautions against the imminent weather change. They should secure outdoor items and prepare for possible power outages due to high winds. Warnings also advise against travel during periods of severe weather to avoid accidents related to falling debris or hazardous road conditions.
This unpredictable weather pattern has become characteristic of Hangzhou during March, often shifting sharply between warm and cold days. The cold front expected from March 2nd is predicted to bring about rain, potentially mixed with snow, particularly at higher altitudes or northern regions of Hangzhou.
Historical weather data from previous years suggests March brings varying seasonal impacts; for example, on March 20, 2019, Hangzhou faced similar convective weather with severe thunderstorms reported across East China.
While some individuals might enjoy the initial warmth, the interplay of warm moist air clashing with cold fronts could trigger the first rumble of thunder for the season, expected imminently as weather conditions align.
For those wanting to enjoy the clearer days, the forecast reveals opportunities for outdoor activities on March 2nd, with temperatures swinging between 16 to 31°C. Nevertheless, the atmosphere may change drastically at night, with thunderstorms expected to roll in.
The forecast moving forward indicates March 3rd will be predominantly overcast with intermittent showers or thunderstorms, temperatures ranging from 10 to 20°C as winds shift to the north, intensifying at levels 5-6 on the Beaufort scale. Following the 3rd, conditions will include periods of cloudy weather with temperatures averaging between 4 and 12°C, signalling colder air will dominate the weeks to come.
Aside from direct weather impacts, people are reminded to participate in the local community activities such as the ‘Hangzhou Microclub’ engagement planned to conclude on March 31, 2025, aiming to build communal ties and awareness around preparedness for such extreme weather phenomena.
Authorities continue to monitor conditions closely and assure residents they will provide the latest updates via local channels. These severe weather warnings are reminders for everyone to stay informed and prepared to handle the forthcoming surge of turbulent weather expected in the following days.