Record February Cold Threatens Northern China; All-Time Snow Totals Sweep Japan; 4 Feet In 3 Days Buries The Alps; + Stable Temperatures In Greenland, Study Finds

120cm (3.9ft) of snow fell in just 12 hours, setting a new all-time record.

Record February Cold Threatens Northern China

Severe cold is poised to hit northern China, with the likes of Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, bracing for record-breaking low temperatures for the month of February.

Latest forecasts indicate readings in mountainous regions could plummet to -35C (-31F), setting new monthly records, well-below the overnight norm of -13C (8.6F).

The China Meteorological Administration has warned that, starting Thursday, a wide area will suffer exceptional cold. They attribute this to a weakening 'polar vortex,' which is allowing northern polar air to sink farther south than usual. This is being exacerbated by a Siberian high, which is funneling frigid, dry air south from Siberia, further intensifying the freeze.

Residents are advised to prepare for the extreme cold by "ensuring adequate heating in homes, wearing appropriate clothing, and minimizing time spent outdoors." The cold wave coincides with the Spring Festival travel rush, potentially affecting transportation. "Drivers are urged to exercise caution, reduce speeds, and maintain greater following distances."

All-Time Snow Totals Sweep Japan

Much of SE Asia is reeling under polar-like conditions, not just China, with unprecedented snow sweeping much of Japan.