As per reports, a severe sandstorm affecting air quality occurred across north western China on Monday (19 February). The sandstorm continued to worsen air quality in much of the region and extended further south into central and southern Chinese cities, especially in Xinjiang, Gansu, Sichuan and Shaanxi provinces. Other cities with hazardous air quality includes Chengdu, Guanguyan, Hotan, Kashgar and Turpan.

Transportation networks were disrupted in Xinjiang as strong winds gusts, snow, and extremely low visibility from yellow dust and sand made driving extremely dangerous. Police and rescue teams were deployed to evacuate drivers who were trapped on highways.

• As per reports, the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) has also elevated the cold wave warning to orange, the highest alert level and most parts of China is forecasted to experience severe temperature drops till Thursday (22 February).