(Gansu, May 5) According to Chinese media reports, sandstorm weather prompted the closure of several tourist attractions in Gansu province. On May 3, severe sand and low visibility led to the suspension of operations at the Yangguan and Yumen Pass scenic areas in Dunhuang. Authorities stated that they would reopen the sites once weather conditions improve to ensure visitor safety. Additionally, some highways in the province experienced snowfall and icing, causing difficulties for self-driving tourists.
China News reported that on the afternoon of May 3, the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake scenic area in Dunhuang issued an emergency announcement. Due to the sandstorm, visibility was significantly reduced. As a precaution, certain recreational activities were suspended, and a planned stargazing concert would be adjusted based on weather conditions.
During the sandstorm, the western section of the Hexi Corridor was shrouded in dense desert sands. Sunlight became dim in the yellow haze, and buildings and landscapes in urban and suburban areas were reduced to blurry outlines.
Traffic Control Implemented at Several Toll Stations
According to traffic police, temporary traffic control measures were imposed on the evening of May 3 at the entrances of the G3011 Liugao Expressway’s Dunhuang, Dunhuang West, and Dunhuang North toll stations, as well as the S63 Liudun Expressway’s Shazhou toll station.
As of 5:00 p.m. on May 3, yellow sandstorm warnings had been issued in Jinchang and Wuwei. Visibility was expected to drop below 1,000 meters in some areas, with less than 500 meters in severe sandstorm zones.
About 1 cm of Snow Covers Highway Surface
CCTV News reported that on the morning of May 4, snowfall and icing occurred on the Xiuhuamiao section of the Lianhuo Expressway at the border of Zhangye and Jinchang. Approximately 1 cm of snow accumulated on the road.
The Lianhuo Expressway is a major highway in Gansu, connecting Zhangye, Jiuquan, and Jiayuguan in the west to Jinchang, Wuwei, and Lanzhou in the east. This makes it a crucial route for many self-driving tourists. The adverse weather significantly impacted return travel.
Currently, traffic police have initiated emergency response measures for adverse weather, conducting phased, continuous patrols and control efforts while providing warnings and guidance. Sandstorm conditions in Gansu are expected to persist until May 5.