Guangdong Experiences Rare Ice-Hung Fog Amid Severe Cold Snap
A severe cold front has swept through Guangdong, bringing with it icy conditions and freezing temperatures. The province's northern regions, including Shaoguan and Qingyuan, have been particularly affected, with temperatures plummeting to record lows. According to the Shaoguan Meteorological Department, the city's northwest high-altitude areas experienced heavy fog, rain, sleet, and freezing rain, resulting in icy roads.

26 January 2025
The cold front has brought a dramatic drop in temperatures, with some areas experiencing a decline of up to 16°C. In the Guangdong province, the towns of Lianshan and Qingyuan reported temperatures below 0°C, with the lowest temperature recorded at -3.5°C in Lianshan. The sudden and extreme cold snap has caused widespread frost and ice, leading to hazardous road conditions.
The Guangdong authorities have issued warnings for the public to be cautious of the severe cold and potential road icing, which may disrupt travel plans during the upcoming Chinese New Year holidays. The Hong Kong Observatory has also issued a strong wind warning, the first of its kind this winter, urging the public to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. As the cold front continues to grip the region, residents are advised to take extra precautions to stay warm and safe.
In a rare and breathtaking phenomenon, Guangdong Province has witnessed the formation of "冰挂雾凇" (ice-hung fog), a type of frost that occurs when supercooled water droplets freeze onto surfaces, creating a mesmerizing display of ice crystals. This natural wonder has been observed in the northwestern high-altitude mountainous regions of Guangdong, particularly in the city of Shaoguan, where the temperature plummeted sharply due to the influence of a cold front.
The ice-hung fog, which resembles a misty veil with delicate ice crystals suspended in the air, has captivated the attention of locals and netizens alike. The stunning visuals have been shared widely on social media, with many marveling at the beauty of this rare phenomenon. As one netizen exclaimed, "广东冷出了新高度,冰挂雾凇美如画!" (Guangdong has reached a new level of cold, and the ice-hung fog is as beautiful as a painting!)
The formation of ice-hung fog is a result of the unique combination of cold air, moisture, and topography in the region. As the cold front swept through Guangdong, it brought with it a mass of cold air that cooled the surface temperature, causing the water vapor in the air to freeze onto surfaces, creating the characteristic ice crystals. The phenomenon is not only a testament to the region's diverse and dynamic weather patterns but also a reminder of the importance of monitoring and adapting to extreme weather conditions.
A powerful cold front has swept through Guangdong, bringing with it a sharp drop in temperatures and icy conditions. According to the Guangdong Meteorological Department, the western and northern parts of the province have been affected the most, with temperatures plummeting by as much as 14°C in some areas. The mercury has even dipped below 0°C in certain high-altitude towns, with the lowest temperature recorded at -3.5°C in Clearwater, Qingyuan.
The cold snap has also led to the formation of ice and frost in some areas, with the phenomenon of "冰挂雾凇" (ice hanging mist frost) being observed in parts of Shaoguan and other high-altitude regions. This rare weather phenomenon occurs when supercooled water droplets in the air freeze onto surfaces, creating a layer of ice and frost. In terms of precipitation, the affected areas can expect rain, sleet, and even snow, with the possibility of freezing rain and icy roads.
The Guangdong Meteorological Department has warned of the potential for serious disruptions to transportation and daily life, and has advised residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm. The cold front is expected to persist for the next few days, with temperatures remaining low and the possibility of further precipitation. Residents are advised to check the latest weather forecasts and warnings before traveling, and to take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm.
As the severe cold weather brings ice and fog to Guangdong, it is essential for residents to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The China Fire Department has issued a warning, reminding people to be mindful of fire safety while using heating devices, and to check the weather forecast before heading outdoors. To prevent accidents, the public is advised to take the following measures: check the weather forecast regularly and plan accordingly, use heating devices safely, following the manufacturer's instructions and keeping them away from flammable materials, be cautious of slippery roads and sidewalks, and slow down while driving or walking.
Residents should also keep warm, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and young children, stay indoors during severe weather conditions, if possible, and keep emergency contact numbers handy, such as the local fire department and emergency services. Additionally, the Hong Kong Observatory has issued a strong wind warning, and the public is advised to be aware of the potential risks of strong winds, low temperatures, and icy roads, which may affect travel plans during the Spring Festival. By taking these precautions, residents can minimize the risks associated with the severe cold weather and stay safe until the weather improves.

