Yantai, the east China city, is preparing itself for further heavy snowfalls this week following yesterday's outbreak. 

A morning downfall saw accumulated snow reach 39 centimeters deep in some places.

It is the second major snowfall in east China's Shandong Province this month.

Snow in Yantai and Weihai last week accumulated to about 1 meter, breaking a 50-year record. Rainfall also exceeded 50 millimeters. According to the local meteorological forecast, more snow is expected this week and residents are being reminded to make full preparations.

Together with the snow, near gale force winds hit the city yesterday.

The municipal government has activated the emergency plan to ensure normal life can continue for residents. Yesterday, primary and secondary schools in Yantai were closed for the day and all fishing on Bohai Bay was suspended.

Snow sweepers were sent out across the area to clear major roads. Teams of workers then cleared snowdrifts of up to 1 meter high at roadsides.

The power department also rushed to repair power grids hit by the snow and strong winds.

Shandong Peninsula has always suffered heavy snow in previous years, said local meteorological experts, but not normally with such frequency.

Yantai and Weihai can both suffer heavy falls of snow and rain because of its geography and climate. Located on Shandong Peninsula, the two cities are in a relatively warm area but when cold air fronts arrive to the peninsula from Siberia, heavy rainfall comes with it.

(China Daily December 13, 2005)