Chinese disaster response authorities have initiated a Level IV emergency protocol across multiple central provinces in anticipation of a severe cold front expected to bring hazardous winter conditions. The National Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Commission announced the measure on Sunday evening as meteorological warnings indicated significant temperature drops and complex precipitation patterns affecting Anhui, Henan, Hunan and Guizhou provinces.
The National Meteorological Center concurrently issued yellow alerts for cold waves and freezing conditions, supplemented by a blue alert for blizzards. Weather forecasts project extensive rain and snow coverage across central and eastern China from Sunday through Wednesday, with the powerful cold mass moving southward.
Emergency response coordination has been intensified with specialized working groups deployed to critical regions. The existing team in Henan will maintain operations while additional units have been dispatched to Hunan and Guizhou to provide on-site guidance and support local preparedness efforts.
Officials have been directed to implement comprehensive safety measures focusing on transportation infrastructure, power supply stability, and essential public services. Local authorities received specific instructions regarding timely snow and ice removal operations and emergency repairs to prevent casualties and substantial property damage. The commission emphasized the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the cold wave’s impact on vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure.