China issues highest cold alert nationwide

This is the most serious warning level in a three-level warning system, as experts predict temperatures will drop sharply in most regions across the country.

According to the NMC, temperatures will drop by 6-10 degrees Celsius across most of China between 8 p.m. on December 15 and 8 a.m. on December 17. In Jilin, Liaoning, Zhejiang and Guangxi, temperatures could drop by 16-20 degrees Celsius. The NMC has called on local authorities to guard against cold weather, advising people to keep warm and take measures to protect crops and livestock.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered all-out efforts to deal with the emergency, resolutely directing the prevention and response to disasters caused by low temperatures, rain, snow and ice.

Regarding the December 14 train accident on the Changping Line in Beijing, local authorities said 515 people were hospitalized for examination, of whom 102 suffered broken bones. No deaths were recorded.

According to a statement from the Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport, a preliminary investigation found that the snow-slicked road caused one train to apply emergency brakes and stop. Meanwhile, the train behind, traveling downhill, skidded and its brakes failed, resulting in a collision with the train in front. As of 6 a.m. on December 15, 423 people had been discharged from hospitals, 25 were under medical observation, and 67 others were receiving treatment, the commission said.

The city government has set up an investigation team to fully determine the cause of the accident and assess emergency response capabilities.