North China hit by heaviest snow storm in 30 years

Blizzard impedes rescue of 1,000 herdsmen cut off by blocked roads, but no casualties reported; at least 700 livestock died from storm.

China blizzard (photo credit: Reuters)
China blizzard
(photo credit: Reuters)
Snow covered roads from heavy winds in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region hindered efforts to reach 1,000 herdsmen, who have been cut off since a major blizzard hit the region a week ago, reported Chinese state news agency Xinhua.
Rescue teams sent by the county-level government managed to clear the roads, but strong winds blew the snow onto the roads again Friday.
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No casualties have been reported, and the herdsmen were not in danger as they reportedly had enough food supplies, Xinhua reported citing a government official.
The blizzard hit the Hinggan League pasture region, with snow piling up to 30 cm deep in some parts and a meter in other areas.
The snow came 40 days earlier than expected and was said to be the heaviest storm in 30 years, killing at least 700 livestock.
The local government allotted 1 million yuan (US$ 150,000) for disaster relief, according to Xinhua.