China: Snowstorms spoil Lunar New Year travel for millions
Transport across China has been disrupted by snowstorms and freezing rain as millions of individuals embark on journeys for the Lunar New Year holiday.
Numerous flights and train services have been called off, leaving motorists stranded on icy highways for long periods.
This holiday initiates the “most extensive yearly human migration” as millions of Chinese citizens travel to their hometowns, a trend that has intensified following the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions over a year ago.
Authorities anticipate a staggering 480 million trips to be undertaken for the Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, marking a 40% surge compared to the previous year.
China’s meteorological agency has issued warnings of the severest winter weather since 2008, with the central region, encompassing provinces like Hebei, Hubei, and Anhui, bearing the brunt of the icy conditions.
The Lunar New Year falls on February 10th, which coincides with a Saturday.
Some 255 cities across the country have seen days when average daily temperatures fall below 0C, far exceeding the conditions of previous years.
The freezing weather is expected to abate soon, with authorities lifting the most severe blizzard warning on Wednesday. Snow will continue in south and central China, but the weather is expected to turn warmer by Friday, according to reports.