The Central Metrological Station has issued a new warning of heavy snowstorms which are expected to hit six provinces and regions across northern China. East China's Jiangsu province has also experienced its first spring rain of the year.

 

The Bohai and Huanghai sea areas are expected to be hit by strong winds as the cold front approaches. The National Maritime Bureau forecasts sea ice in Liaodong Bay may extend to 100 to 110 nautical miles. Major ports in Bohai, Huanghai and Liaodong Bay will be affected.

Shandong, Shanxi, Hebei and Henan provinces have already been hit by the new snowstorms, closing more than 35 highways, national and provincial roads.

Related departments are trying to clear the snow to reopen the roads as soon as possible.

Shaanxi province's Baoji city was also hit by snow on Tuesday, causing the temperature to drop to minus three degrees Celsius.

Transport chiefs are making preparations to cope.

Wang Yajun, Baoji Bus Station, said, "In case it's snowing heavily, we'll fix tire chains to each bus."

The station said it will adjust bus schedules according to the weather situation. It is advising passengers to check real-time information before setting out.

Eastern Jiangsu and Jiangxi provinces have welcomed the year's first spring rain, a month earlier than last year.

Han Guirong, said, "By Friday, the rain may turn to mixed rain and snow or even snow. The temperature in Nanjing city will fall to minus one degree Celsius."

The large amount of snow will seriously affect road, rail, sea and air transport during the Spring Festival travel rush.