China’s National Meteorological Centre (NMC) issued a nationwide alert on Saturday, December 6, detailing two successive cold air masses expected to trigger dramatic temperature drops and widespread precipitation across the country starting next week. The primary event, spanning Thursday through Saturday (December 11–13), is forecast to deliver temperature declines of 6–10°C across most provinces, with some northern territories experiencing plunges exceeding 12°C. These conditions signal the potential for the first severe winter weather event of the season, impacting travel and agriculture across China.
Initial Cold Front Sets the Stage
Before the main Arctic blast arrives, a preceding cold surge is set to sweep through northern China on Sunday and Monday (December 7–8). Regions north of the Yellow River–Huai River line should anticipate initial cooling, with temperatures falling between 4°C and 6°C. Locally, some areas may see drops of 8°C or more, acclimatizing the population to the impending deep freeze.
By Tuesday, weather dynamics begin to shift as initial snowfall is forecast to develop in northern Xinjiang. This precipitation is expected to intensify and expand eastward through the week.
Major Weather Event Forecast
The more substantial cold event mid-week brings widespread rain and snow. Between Thursday and Saturday, eastern parts of the northwest, North China, and the northeast are expected to experience extensive bouts of successive rain and snow. The NMC anticipates this system could represent the most significant, broad-reaching snowfall event in the north so far this winter. Concurrent precipitation is also projected for southern regions, taking the form of widespread rainfall.
The severity of the temperature decreases underscores the need for public vigilance concerning heating, infrastructure protection, and travel delays. The regions most affected by the maximum temperature dips—those potentially experiencing 12–14°C drops—are primarily located in northern localities already experiencing winter weather.
Impacts of Early Winter Weather
The national forecast aligns with observed conditions in extreme northern areas. In Heilongjiang Province, along the Sino-Russian border, the persistent cold has already caused significant natural phenomena.
The Heilongjiang River at Tongjiang this year began its four-month freeze, although this occurred approximately 13 days later than the long-term average for the region. From the Sanjiangkou Ecotourism Area in Tongjiang City, authorities have confirmed that the confluence of the Songhua and Heilong rivers is now entirely icebound, marking the official start of the severe winter season for that northern waterway.
Preparing for the Freeze
Residents and local authorities are advised to take preemptive measures to handle the sharp drop in temperatures and anticipated hazardous travel conditions.
- Insulation and Heating: Ensure adequate heating fuel is available and check residential insulation to cope with the 6–14°C declines.
- Travel Safety: Expect delays and hazardous road conditions, particularly in areas forecast to receive heavy snowfall in the North and Northeast.
- Infrastructure Protection: Prevent damage to exposed pipes and external plumbing due to freezing temperatures.
The impending cold air masses will significantly lower average temperatures across China, fully cementing the nation’s transition into winter and demanding preparations for potentially severe weather impacts this December.