Beijing Faces Air Pollution as Sandstorms Hit During Chinese New Year
Beijing is currently experiencing a surge in air pollution due to strong winds and sandstorms, impacting the ongoing Chinese New Year celebrations. Authorities have taken measures to protect public health, including temporary closures of outdoor attractions and suspension of some holiday activities.
Air Quality Deteriorates
As of Saturday afternoon, February 21, 2026, the PM10 concentration in Beijing reached an average of 175 micrograms per cubic meter, classified as light pollution according to meteorological authorities. The peak pollution level is forecast to exceed 500 micrograms per cubic meter later on Saturday, reaching severe levels. Current PM10 levels are at 94 µg/m³, categorized as Moderate according to the AQI Air Quality Index.
Disruptions and Warnings
In response to the deteriorating air quality, Beijing authorities have issued a yellow warning for strong winds and a blue warning for sandstorms. Certain outdoor scenic spots have been temporarily closed, and some Chinese New Year activities have been suspended from Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning. Passenger ferry services between Liaoning and Shandong provinces were also suspended starting at 12:50 p.m. On Saturday, with gradual resumption expected on Sunday as reported by Xinhua.
Regional Impact and Response
The sandstorms are not limited to Beijing, with multiple northern regions of China expected to experience strong winds and sandstorms from Friday to Sunday. The China Meteorological Administration activated a Level-IV emergency response for major meteorological disasters on Friday according to Xinhua.
Weather Forecast
Winds are expected to weaken in Beijing on Monday, the final day of the nine-day Chinese New Year holiday as indicated by the weather forecast.
China’s Weather Warning System
China employs a four-tier weather warning system, with red representing the most severe alert, followed by orange, yellow, and blue. Similarly, the emergency response system operates on four levels, with Level I signifying the most critical situation.