As the central and eastern regions of China brace for the longest-lasting large-scale freezing rain and snow weather since the beginning of winter, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs has issued an emergency notice outlining preparations for the upcoming inclement weather.
The meteorological department has predicted that from January 31 to February 5, the central and eastern regions will face the largest number of provinces with freezing rain. In response, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs has called for agricultural and rural departments at all levels to take proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the upcoming weather.
The emergency notice requires the strengthening of monitoring and early warning systems, the implementation of defensive measures, and the preparation of vegetable greenhouses, livestock and poultry pens, and aquaculture facilities. Additionally, measures such as controlling temperature, humidity, and increasing temperature and light, as well as strengthening fertilizer and water management, have been mandated.
The southern region is also being urged to take anti-freeze measures for crops such as rapeseed, open-field vegetables, and fruit trees. Furthermore, protecting facilities and equipment for livestock, poultry, and aquatic products from freezing and ensuring a timely reserve of supplementary feed are among the actions being enforced.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs underlines the need to formulate and improve scientific anti-freeze and cold-resistant technical plans, as well as to strengthen the adjustment and transportation of production materials such as seeds, fertilizers, and fodder. It is important to reduce the superimposed effects of stain damage and cold freeze damage after the rain and snow.
Given that the upcoming weather coincides with the peak season for the transportation and sales of “vegetable basket” products on the eve of the Spring Festival, some areas may experience difficulties in the transportation of fresh agricultural products. As a result, the Ministry is calling for close attention to market dynamics, the timely release of supply and demand information, and the stabilization of market expectations.
As the Chinese agricultural sector prepares for the upcoming risk of severe weather, it is clear that proactive and precautionary measures are being taken to safeguard against potential damage to crops and livestock. It is hoped that the preparations outlined by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs will minimize the impact of the impending freezing rain and snow on the agricultural industry.