Beijing enveloped in hazardous sandstorm, second time in two weeks

Readings of PM2.5 particles were above 300 micrograms per cubic metre, far higher than China’s standard of 35 micrograms.

The Chinese capital Beijing woke on March 28 morning shrouded in thick dust carrying extremely high levels of hazardous particles, as a second sandstorm in two weeks hit the city due to winds from drought-hit Mongolia and northwestern China. Visibility in the city was reduced, with the tops of some skyscrapers obscured by the sandstorm, and pedestrians were forced to cover their eyes as gusts of dust swept through the streets. “It’s quite serious today. There’s always a day or two liket his (of pollution or dust) each month,” said Mr. Fan, 39, who did not wish to disclose his full name.