A severe winter storm has brought Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to a standstill this week, with heavy snowfall disrupting transportation networks and testing urban emergency response systems. The blizzard, which began on December 9, 2025, has particularly impacted the regional capital Urumqi and neighboring Shihezi City.
Transport authorities reported multiple highway closures across the region, with partial traffic controls remaining in effect as of Thursday. Railway services suffered significant interruptions, with several passenger trains canceled since Wednesday. At Urumqi's transportation hubs, workers have deployed anti-slip mats and adjusted heating systems to maintain passenger safety amid temperatures plunging to -15°C.
Emergency crews continue round-the-clock operations to clear vital transport arteries. In Shihezi, coordinated teams of snowplows work in military-like precision – large vehicles clearing main roads while smaller units handle pedestrian pathways. Urumqi Traffic Police Detachment instructor Qin Jianbo confirmed implementation of highest-level emergency protocols, stating: 'We've mobilized all available resources to ensure critical routes remain passable.'
The cold snap has intensified pressure on urban heating systems. Urumqi Huayuan Heating Co., Ltd. has increased output by 20% since Tuesday, with deputy manager Wang Yabin confirming network temperatures have been systematically raised to maintain indoor temperatures above 20°C. Energy authorities prioritize maintaining uninterrupted supply to residential areas as the mercury continues to drop.
Meteorological forecasts predict additional snowfall through the weekend, with temperatures expected to remain below -10°C. Authorities urge residents to limit non-essential travel and prepare for extended cold conditions.
