China´s north areas experiencing big snowfalls

Source: CCTV.com | 12-30-2006 16:57

China's north areas are experiencing large-scale snowfalls. Beijing embraces its first big snow so far this winter and in north and central areas, Tianjin, Shanxi, Shandong and Henan provinces are also covered with heavy snows.

It's the first big snowfall for Beijing so far this winter. The snow started at 2:40 am Saturday, blanketing the Chinese capital and slowing down the traffic in the morning rush hour.

Traffic congestion on slippery roads have caused a lot of trouble for the working population, most of whom are advised to work through this weekend before taking the first three days of the new year off.

The municipal administration commission sent cleaners and vehicles to sweep snow and spray snow-dissolving agents along major urban roads at dawn.

Some parts of major expressways in and out of the city have also been temporarily closed.

More than 100 flights have been delayed at Beijing's Capital International Airport due to the snow.

Saturday's early morning also saw a big snow in Tianjin, covering everywhere of the city white, and making a cleaner air. Local government has sent two thousand personel to deal with the traffic problems caused by the big snow. Many express ways in and out Tianjin have been closed.

Heavy snow fall also hit Central China's Shandong and Hebei provinces. Weatherman said though the snow has made traffic more difficult, it eases the temporary drought.

According to the Central Metrological Observatory, more snow blizzards will move towards the west over the next few days, covering many areas in the northwest China.

Editor:Du Xiaodan