The Chinese mainland is bracing for a sharp temperature decline this week after the National Meteorological Center issued a blue cold wave alert yesterday. The alert, the lowest in China's four-tier color-coded warning system, comes as Arctic air masses sweep across northern and northeastern regions through February 23.
Meteorologists predict temperature drops of 6–10°C across much of northern China, with Inner Mongolia and the provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning facing particularly severe conditions. Some areas could see mercury levels plunge by 12–14°C, creating challenges for agriculture and infrastructure.
Authorities have urged local governments to implement protective measures for winter crops and aquaculture operations. The cold snap arrives during a critical period for agricultural planning, with many farmers preparing for spring planting.
While blue alerts represent the least severe category in China's weather warning system, this event highlights the ongoing climate challenges facing Asia's largest economy. The meteorological center continues to monitor conditions closely, with updates expected throughout the week.
