A historic winter storm has engulfed northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, unleashing the heaviest single-day snowfall in Urumqi since records began. The blizzard, ongoing since Wednesday, has paralyzed road networks, stranded travelers, and prompted emergency response measures across multiple prefectures.
Urumqi recorded 38 cm of snow accumulation within 24 hours – surpassing all previous December records – while temperatures plunged to -20°C in rural areas. Major highways including the G30 Lianhuo Expressway remain closed, with over 1,200 vehicles rescued from snowbound routes. Regional airports canceled 85% of flights during the storm's peak, leaving thousands of passengers temporarily stranded.
Local authorities mobilized 3,200 snowplows and 12,000 emergency workers to clear critical transport arteries. 'We've deployed all available resources to restore connectivity between northern Xinjiang's energy-producing areas and industrial centers,' stated regional transportation director Ma Hongwei during a press briefing.
The extreme weather comes as global investors monitor Xinjiang's crucial role in China's energy and agricultural sectors. While short-term logistics disruptions are expected, analysts suggest the region's robust infrastructure development in recent years will facilitate rapid recovery.
Residents like Urumqi shopkeeper Aynur Memet told KhabarAsia: 'This storm reminds us of our community's resilience. Neighbors helped dig out stranded delivery trucks to keep supermarkets stocked.' Meteorological authorities predict gradual improvement by weekend, though sub-zero temperatures persist.
