Sandstorms hit parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on April 17.⁣ ⁣ Strong winds carrying thick clouds of sand and dust swept in from the northwest toward downtown Shihezi City, forming a massive wall of sand that engulfed the area.⁣ ⁣ Fortunately, heavy rain began to fall shortly thereafter, improving air quality.⁣ Disaster relief and self-rescue emergency plans have been activated in the city to ensure the smooth operation of daily life and economic activities.⁣ ⁣ #Sandstorm #Xinjiang #DustStorm #ChinaWeather #ExtremeWeather⁣