In an unusual public safety announcement, the Chinese government has urged individuals weighing less than 110 pounds (50 kilograms) to remain indoors due to dangerously strong winds sweeping across northern China.
The rare advisory came from meteorological officials in the city of Jiamusi, located in Heilongjiang province, where wind gusts are expected to reach speeds over 75 miles per hour.
The warning, posted on the Jiamusi Meteorological Bureau’s official WeChat account, quickly went viral across Chinese social media platforms. The advisory specifically cautioned “young people, the elderly, and those with low body weight” to avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary.
While the recommendation may seem unusual, experts say it’s a necessary response to extreme weather conditions that could literally lift or knock over small-framed individuals.
Dangerous Gusts Sweep Northern China
Northern China has been experiencing powerful windstorms due to a strong cold front moving in from Siberia. The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) issued high-level alerts across several provinces, warning of blowing dust, falling objects, and reduced visibility in urban centers.
In Jiamusi, wind speeds reached Force 10 on the Beaufort scale, classified as a storm with the potential to uproot trees and cause widespread damage. Local authorities are urging residents to secure windows, balconies, and outdoor objects.
The CMA has stated that the intense winds are expected to continue through mid-week, bringing with them a risk of flying debris, structural damage, and power outages.
A Public Health and Safety Issue
While the advisory focusing on people’s body weight caught international attention, it underscores a serious public safety issue. Light individuals—particularly children and the elderly—are at greater risk of being knocked over, injured, or swept into traffic by strong gusts.
Meteorologist Zhang Ming from the Jiamusi Meteorological Bureau explained the reasoning behind the advisory: “We’ve seen in past years that extreme wind can literally carry away loose objects and even unprepared individuals. Our warning was meant as a precautionary measure to reduce injuries.”
Other cities across the northeast, including Harbin and Mudanjiang, have issued similar warnings, though without specific weight references. Residents are also being advised to avoid scaffolding, construction areas, and large trees.
Social Media Reactions: Humor Meets Concern
As news of the advisory spread online, Chinese social media lit up with reactions ranging from concern to lighthearted mockery. Hashtags like “110PoundChallenge” and “TieYourselfDown” began trending on Weibo, China’s equivalent to Twitter.
“I never thought being lightweight would be hazardous to my health,” joked one user. Others posted photos of themselves holding on to trees or tying ropes around their waists with the caption, “Ready for the wind.”
Still, many expressed genuine concern for elderly relatives and young children who may not be able to resist strong wind forces, especially in crowded urban areas with limited shelter.
Safety Measures and Government Recommendations
In response to the hazardous conditions, government officials have released a set of safety tips for residents across the affected areas. These include:
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak wind hours.
- Stay away from high structures, trees, and power lines.
- Secure all windows and loose objects in homes and on balconies.
- Keep emergency supplies ready in case of power outages.
Residents were also encouraged to monitor local alerts and weather updates from the National Meteorological Center for real-time safety advisories.
Public transportation authorities have also taken action, suspending ferry services and delaying flights in regions most affected by the storm. Outdoor events, including local festivals and street markets, have been canceled or rescheduled.
Climate Trends Behind the Storm
According to climate analysts, increasingly severe windstorms in northern China may be tied to larger climate shifts across East Asia. Rising sea temperatures and atmospheric instability have intensified weather patterns in the region, resulting in stronger cold fronts and more frequent storms.
A 2024 report by China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment indicated a notable rise in extreme weather events across the country over the past decade, including droughts, heatwaves, and typhoons. The report emphasized the need for stronger public preparedness and climate adaptation strategies at both the local and national levels.
Vulnerable Populations at Risk
The incident has also reignited discussions about disaster preparedness for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and people with disabilities. Experts argue that advisories should always include specific, inclusive language to ensure everyone knows how to stay safe.
Health and safety officials recommend that those living alone or in high-rise apartments keep a communication plan with family members or neighbors during periods of extreme weather. Local community organizations have also been mobilized to check on residents in high-risk categories.
Conclusion: A Strange Warning with a Serious Message
While the warning to keep underweight individuals indoors may have sparked some laughter online, it highlights the growing need for climate resilience and public safety awareness in a changing world.
With windstorms becoming more frequent and intense, authorities are urging citizens to take all weather advisories seriously—regardless of how unusual they may sound.
As the winds continue to howl across northern China, thousands are staying safely indoors, heeding a message that may one day become more common as climate conditions evolve.
For official updates and public safety information, visit the China Meteorological Administration.
Disclaimer – Our team has carefully fact-checked this article to make sure it’s accurate and free from any misinformation. We’re dedicated to keeping our content honest and reliable for our readers.