China warns lighter people to stay indoors as country braces for strong winds
BEIJING, China — People weighing less than 50 kilograms (110 pounds) may be “easily blown away”, China’s state media outlets warned on Friday while urging millions to stay indoors as the country prepares for extreme winds this weekend.
According to a BBC News report, winds reaching 150kph (93mph) are expected to sweep Beijing, Tianjin and other parts of the Hebei region from Friday to Sunday, as a cold vortex moves southeast from Mongolia.
Noting that Beijing issued an orange alert for strong gales, the report said temperatures are expected to drop by 13C (55F) within 24 hours.
China measures wind speed on a scale of one to 17 with a level 11 wind causing “serious damage” and a level 12 wind bringing “extreme destruction”. The winds this weekend are expected to range from level 11 to 13, the report said.
Several workers were told to hurry home, classes were suspended and outdoor events were cancelled ahead of the weather event, it added.
