Millions told to stay indoors as China braces for strong winds

Residents in northern China have been urged to rush home, schools have been closed, and outdoor events called off as the region braces for powerful winds this weekend.

Authorities have advised millions to remain indoors, with some media even cautioning that individuals under 50kg (110lbs) could be "blown away" by the gusts.

Wind speeds of up to 150kph (93mph) are forecast to hit Beijing, Tianjin, and parts of Hebei from Friday through Sunday, driven by a cold air mass descending from Mongolia.

Beijing has issued its first orange-level wind alert in ten years—the second-highest tier in the country's four-level warning system.

Though strong winds from Mongolia are typical in spring, this incoming system is expected to be among the most intense in years.

Officials say temperatures in Beijing could plummet by 13°C (55°F) within a single day when the peak winds arrive on Saturday.

The Beijing Meteorological Service described the situation as severe, citing the wind's intensity, duration, and widespread impact.

China uses a 17-level wind scale; winds this weekend are expected to reach levels 11 to 13, which can cause serious to extreme damage, according to the China Meteorological Administration.

Numerous events, including the world's first humanoid robot half-marathon, have been postponed, with the race rescheduled for 19 April. Parks and tourist destinations are closed, and construction and rail services have been suspended.

Authorities have reinforced or trimmed thousands of trees across the capital to prevent wind-related hazards, and residents are being warned to stay out of mountainous or forested areas, where gusts are expected to be even more severe.

Despite the warnings, many people are making light of the disruption online. "This wind is so polite—it starts Friday night and ends Sunday, sparing the Monday workday," joked one Weibo user.

Social media is buzzing with posts about the unusual warnings and strong winds, including jokes about body weight and wind resistance. "All my overeating has finally paid off," one user quipped.

Beijing has also issued a fire alert, banning open flames outdoors due to the increased risk of forest fires.

The winds are expected to taper off by Sunday night.