Flights canceled as powerful gales hit Beijing

Strong winds have disrupted flights and trains in Beijing, with authorities urging millions to stay indoors.

Hundreds of flights have been canceled and train services suspended as powerful gales swept through Beijing and northern China.

Around 838 flights were canceled at the capital's two main airports as wind gusts, reaching up to 93 mph — the strongest in Beijing in over 50 years — are expected to continue through the weekend, forcing the closure of tourist attractions and historic sites.

In the Fangshan District, strong winds tore a metal roof off a factory, blocking a nearby road. Authorities quickly cleared the debris, and traffic has since resumed with no injuries reported.

Millions of residents were urged to stay indoors, with some state media warning that people weighing under 50kg could be "easily blown away."

The strongest recorded gust hit 45.8 meters per second in the mountainous Mentougou District, followed by 39 meters per second in Fangshan.

Beijing’s emergency management department reported that 7,430 people were evacuated safely. Essential services, including water, electricity, gas, heating, and supplies, remain operational.

The meteorological department forecasts that the gales will ease by Monday.

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