A week of snow turned Beijing into a winter wonderland
Beijing has transformed into a snowy landscape, following days of intermittent snowfall that have triggered urgent weather warnings from the city’s emergency services. On Wednesday, the Beijing Municipal Emergency Bureau issued an orange alert, the second-most intense level in the spectrum, advising residents to take precautions against the cold and minimize travel within the city. The sub-zero temperatures and snow-clogged streets have led to traffic jams, long lines at subway stations, and prolonged wait time on ride-hailing apps.
Despite the challenges, the city is still bustling. Delivery people expertly navigate their electric bicycles along the icy roads, bringing hot drinks and food to people’s doorsteps. The Forbidden City and other attraction sites are buzzing with visitors, eagerly capturing the picturesque snow day through a frenzy of snapshots. Hardy locals continue with their daily routines. In the Houhai area, a popular tourist destination known for its surrounding restaurants and vibrant nightlife, some senior swimmers even brave the cold for dips in the partially-frozen lake.