Sandy and dusty weather swept across north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on Monday and Tuesday, reducing visibility and deteriorating the air quality.
In parts of Alashan League, visibility dropped below five meters amid strong winds on Monday afternoon. Local traffic police promptly started an emergency response, patrolling highways to alert drivers for safety.
According to the local meteorological center, the dusty weather is expected to gradually wane by Thursday.
Sandy, dusty weather reduces visibility in Inner Mongolia
The inaugural maritime film festival kicked off on board China's first domestically built large cruise ship Adora Magic City on Sunday, with classic movie screenings, exhibitions of cinematic memorabilia and interactive activities together creating a special journey for travelers.
Jointly presented by Adora Cruises and Changchun Film Group, guests are treated with movie screenings, panel sessions with actors, as well as interactive performances themed on classic movies during a five-day voyage.
The themed cruise season will run until the end of June on three cruise ships.
"Through the in-depth expansion of the 'film plus' model, we combine resources across sectors to explore new pathways for the integrated development of the film and television industry and the cruise economy," said Zhuang Yan, chairman of Changchun Film Group, at the opening event.
Actor Hou Yong, who is on the maiden voyage of the film-themed cruise season, said he was looking forward to having interactive experiences with audiences.
"During this journey, I also look forward to those chances of encounters -- with film audiences, with film enthusiasts. As an actor, I feel I have the obligation, the capability, and the responsibility to pass on my understanding of Chinese cinema to them," he said.
Adora Magic City, 323.6 meters long, has a gross tonnage of 135,500 tonnes and can accommodate up to 5,246 passengers in 2,125 guest rooms.
First maritime film festival launched on China's homegrown cruise ship
