On January 16, a video conference was convened to study and implement in depth General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important instructions on disaster prevention, mitigation and relief, fully carry out the work requirements of the CPC Jiangsu Provincial Committee and the Provincial Government, and make arrangements for province-wide preparedness and response to low-temperature rain, snow and freezing weather.

The conference noted that, according to meteorological forecasts, most parts of the province will experience moderate to heavy snowfall from the night of January 18 to the morning of January 20, with blizzards in some areas, followed by freezing conditions across the province from January 21 to 24. All localities and departments are required to closely monitor weather developments, strengthen joint consultations and assessments, fully implement a “two direct-to-end” mechanism that delivers early warnings and emergency instructions directly to those affected and those responsible, thereby effectively advancing disaster prevention, mitigation and relief efforts.

Priority should be given to snow clearance and deicing on expressways, urban overpasses, roads and bridges, tunnels, and rail transit systems. Road patrols and surface maintenance will be strengthened, sufficient snow- and ice-removal equipment will be put in place, and strict measures will be taken to prevent road icing risks. Efforts will also be intensified to enhance online monitoring and ice-melting and removal for power grid, as well as to promptly remove accumulated snow from the roofs of crowded venues such as hospitals, farmers’ markets and sports facilities.

Comprehensive inspections and risk elimination will be conducted for temporary structures at construction sites, outdoor billboards, self-built houses and dilapidated buildings, alongside reinforcement of agricultural facilities. Maintenance and inspections of urban and rural infrastructure will be strengthened, with adequate emergency repair forces on standby to ensure the stable operation of power supply, water supply and communications facilities. Scenic areas are required to step up preventive measures and implement warning notices and anti-slip precautions.

Efforts will also be made to strengthen basic livelihood guarantee, enhance public education on heating safety, ensure the supply of vegetables and fresh agricultural products, and maintain stable production and living order. Strict duty rosters will be enforced, with emergency rescue forces pre-positioned and ready for rapid response, to effectively safeguard people’s lives and property and maintain overall social stability.