Sandstorms have engulfed northern China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, prompting the National Meteorological Center (NMC) to renew a yellow alert on Wednesday. The storms, fueled by fierce winds and dry conditions, are creating apocalyptic skies reminiscent of a dystopian movie scene 🎬.
Residents in affected areas—including Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and parts of northwestern, northern, and northeastern China—are urged to stay indoors, avoid billboards, and secure windows. Visibility has plummeted as dust blankets cities like Hohhot, where orange-tinted air became a viral spectacle last year 📸.
Why Now? Meteorological expert Zhang Bihui explained that rising temperatures (up to 18°C, 2-4°C higher than average) and reduced snowfall in Mongolia and northern China have left soil exposed. "Bare ground acts like a sand factory," Zhang said, comparing the phenomenon to a "natural sandblaster" 💨.
Safety First: – Close windows and doors – Wear masks if outside – Avoid unstable structures
While sandstorms are seasonal, their intensity this year highlights climate challenges. Stay tuned for updates—this isn't the last dusty chapter of 2024 📆.
