In Altay Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, widespread snowfall and a drop in temperatures have persisted for several days, prompting local authorities to issue consecutive weather warnings for heavy snow, icy roads and a cold snap.
Burqin County on Wednesday activated an emergency response plan, coordinating multiple departments to clear roads and evacuate tourists following days of heavy snowfall.
Snow accumulation in some areas of Kanas scenic area in Burqin County exceeded 30 centimeters, blocking access to the scenic area's roads.
On Wednesday, the county swiftly coordinated resources from highway and traffic management departments, deploying personnel and snow-clearing equipment to remove snow and clear roads around the clock.
To ensure travel safety, local traffic police implemented temporary traffic controls on the scenic area’s roads and issued real-time road conditions.
They also organized volunteers to direct traffic and assist stranded tourists, while providing free hot water, food and other supplies to them.
Once the scenic area's roads were passable, traffic police escorted vehicles and tourists out in batches.
According to weather forecasts, snowfall in the Altay region is expected to continue through Saturday.
Heavy snow prompts evacuations, road closures in Xinjiang
