Severe Cold Wave Sweeps Across China

A significant cold wave has impacted large parts of China, particularly from January 17 to January 21, 2026. The National Meteorological Center issued multiple alerts, including a yellow alert for cold waves and blizzards, as temperatures plummeted across central, eastern, and southern regions. The cold wave has brought widespread snowfall, with Beijing experiencing its first citywide snowfall of the year, and temperatures in some areas dropping as low as minus 40.8 degrees Celsius in northern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Cold wave brings sharp temperature drops, snowfall to northern ChinaSevere weather warning issued as cold wave sweeps across ChinaCold wave expected to sweep across China

The cold wave is characterized by a "return-flow snowfall pattern," where moisture-laden cold air moves inland from Bohai Bay. This phenomenon has resulted in heavy snowfall, particularly in the western mountainous areas of Beijing. Meteorologists noted that the snowfall was intensified by temperatures ranging between minus 10 degrees Celsius and minus 20 degrees Celsius, optimal for snowflake formation. The cold wave is expected to peak on January 19, with temperatures in central and eastern China forecasted to drop by 6 to 12 degrees Celsius, and localized declines exceeding 16 degrees Celsius.

Severe weather warning issued as cold wave sweeps across China

In response to the severe weather, the national disaster prevention and relief commission activated a Level IV emergency response, the lowest tier in its system, to mitigate risks associated with low temperatures, snow, and ice. Local governments in affected provinces, including Anhui, Henan, Hunan, and Guizhou, have implemented emergency plans to safeguard infrastructure and public safety. For instance, the China Railway Wuhan Bureau has conducted advance risk assessments and deployed crews to clear snow from tracks to ensure safe rail operations.

Severe weather warning issued as cold wave sweeps across China

The cold wave has caused significant disruptions, including traffic control measures on national and provincial highways in Xinjiang and temporary closures of expressway entrances in Hebei Province. Local authorities have mobilized resources to clear snow from roads and ensure the safety of transportation networks. Additionally, agricultural measures have been taken in Gansu Province to protect crops from weather-related losses.

Cold wave brings sharp temperature drops, snowfall to northern China

Experts have raised concerns about the rapid transition from unusually warm weather earlier in January to the current cold conditions, which could pose challenges for public safety and infrastructure. Mr. Hu Xiao from the China Meteorological Administration noted that the cold wave's slow movement and moisture content could lead to complex precipitation types, increasing the risk of freezing rain and ice accumulation, particularly in southern regions.

Cold wave expected to sweep across ChinaSevere weather warning issued as cold wave sweeps across ChinaCold wave brings sharp temperature drops, snowfall to northern China

• “People will feel as if the weather has suddenly become frigid,” — Mr. Hu Xiao, Analyst, China Meteorological Administration

Severe weather warning issued as cold wave sweeps across China

• “The risk of freezing rain during this cold wave is higher than the risk of heavy snowfall, posing challenges for transportation, power supply, and public safety,” — Zhang Tao, Chief Forecaster, National Meteorological Center

Cold wave expected to sweep across China

This cold wave marks a significant weather event for China, with authorities urging heightened vigilance and preparedness as the situation develops.

Severe weather warning issued as cold wave sweeps across China