Refer China: 8,000 Travelers Stranded at Zhengzhou Airport as Snowstorm Paralyzes Transport Across China。 Over 129 flights cancelled and high-speed trains halted amid severe winter storm; scenic spots closed and further disruptions expected in southern regions。

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8,000 Stranded at Airport in This City! Snow Disrupts Travel Across China

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Over 8,000 travelers were stranded at Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport on the night of January 19 as a massive snowstorm triggered widespread transport disruptions across China. The runway closure due to heavy snowfall halted all flight operations, leaving terminals overwhelmed with delayed and displaced passengers.

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According to airport authorities, the runway remained closed from 8:14 PM to 11:00 PM, and over 129 flights were cancelled on January 20, with delays averaging 175 minutes. Although operations resumed by morning, snow accumulation slowed departure clearance, leading to a flight backlog.

Passengers described chaotic scenes—long waits, canceled flights, and late-night relocations to hotels. One traveler shared that a flight originally scheduled for 5:50 PM was delayed for hours before being cancelled outright.

The ripple effect of the weather extended beyond Zhengzhou. High-speed trains on routes like Beijing-Shanghai, Nanjing-Hangzhou, and Lianyungang-Zhenjiang were temporarily suspended. The railway bureau cited safety concerns due to snow and freezing rain across parts of Henan, Anhui, and Hunan.

Scenic spots in multiple provinces, including Wudang Mountain in Hubei, Moganshan in Zhejiang, and Xisha Wetlands in Shanghai, also issued emergency closure notices due to hazardous conditions. It's recommended to monitor travel advisories and prepare for possible itinerary changes.

The ongoing storm system, identified as the most severe rain-snow-freeze event of this winter, is expected to shift further south. Forecasts predict continued freezing rain and snow in areas of Guizhou, Hunan, Guangxi, and Jiangxi, potentially intensifying road and rail hazards.

As weather remains unpredictable, travellers are advised to stay informed and adjust their plans accordingly.

Source: 新民晚报