Severe weather conditions are forecasted to impact various regions of China, as the Central Meteorological Administration has issued warnings of extreme weather phenomena including heavy snowfall, low visibility due to dense fog, and significant cold waves. This warning, announced on February 28 and lasting through March 5, 2025, raises concerns over transportation safety and daily life across affected areas.
According to the latest update from the Central Meteorological Administration, thick fog is expected to blanket coastal areas such as Bohai Bay, and various sections of the Yellow Sea and East China Sea, where visibility can drop below 1 kilometer during the night till morning on March 1. Particularly severe fog conditions, with visibility plunging below 500 meters, are anticipated near major ports including Shanghai and Ningbo, as well as areas surrounding the Yangtze River estuary.
Reported by CCTV, authorities urge caution: "Due to low visibility on land, drivers should control their speed to guarantee safety." The upcoming weather phenomenon is not just limited to reduced visibility. Beginning on the night of February 28, Shandong Province expects to see dramatic changes, with the arrival of strong cold air causing considerable temperature drops and rain across the region.
From February 28 to March 1, temperatures across most of Shandong are forecasted to exceed 20 degrees Celsius; this will soon shift dramatically as cold air from the north arrives, plummeting maximum temperatures by approximately 20 degrees and minimum temperatures by 8 to 12 degrees. Specific areas expect chilling temperatures as low as -8 degrees Celsius, particularly in northwestern and mountainous regions, with coastal areas settling between just above freezing and slightly above.
By the evening of March 1, heavy rain and snow are predicted to impact broader areas, with continued precipitation expected during the following days. Starting March 2, Shandong will experience heavy snow and rain, leading to substantial snow accumulation in central and northern areas, alongside up to 50 millimeters of rain. Consequently, authorities warn, the effects of this weather will likely exacerbate existing challenges for transport, urban operations, energy supplies, and agricultural activities.
Shandong Provincial Meteorological Bureau notes, "This rain and snow event is expected to significantly improve soil moisture but will adversely affect transportation, city operations, and agricultural facilities." Residents and travelers are encouraged to prepare adequately for the adverse conditions projected to hit.
The continued presence of fog and low visibility will not only pose challenges for ground travel. The maritime areas of Bohai Bay, where high winds are expected to ramp up to levels marked by gusts reaching 9 to 11 on the Beaufort scale, are also under warning. Visibility here could drop below 500 meters, with densely foggy conditions affecting navigation and port operations.
Due to the heavy snowfall predicted, authorities are sounding alarms particularly over traffic disruptions expected during the holiday periods beginning on March 1. This is anticipated to cause dangerous conditions, especially on the night of March 2 when icy patches could form from rain transitioning to snow. Motorists are advised to remain vigilant and confirm road conditions before travel.
Weather professionals anticipate snow will linger until at least March 4, with temperatures across the country expected to remain above average until then, mixing warmer air systems occasionally. A significant temperature drop is predicted impacting overall health this weekend, with daytime high temperatures expected to hover between 9 to 18 degrees Celsius across many regions of the country.
Residents are urged to monitor the weather updates closely and prepare for potential isolation scenarios resulting from heavy snowfall, affecting transportation and supplies. Authorities encourage ensuring vehicles are winter-ready and to proceed with caution, especially on roads known for becoming slippery under such conditions.
With these updates, it is clear the weather patterns interacting over China lead to complex meteorological challenges, demanding immediate attention and readiness from affected populations. Therefore, individuals and communities must stay informed about the forecast, heed local advice, and take necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with these severe weather events.