Beijing experienced its coldest December since records began in 1951, after a cold wave hit much of China. Temperatures have risen into the new year but Beijing remains cold, with maximum temperatures reaching just above freezing so far. Meanwhile, the first day of 2024 ushered in the first cyclone of the year, as Tropical Storm Alvaro made landfall on the west coast of southern Madagascar. Heavy rain was widespread across much of southern Madagascar, with more than 100mm of rainfall in places, resulting in significant flooding. Having passed across Madagascar, Alvaro briefly restrengthened to a Moderate Tropical Storm as it reached the Indian Ocean.

Source: The Guardian January 06, 2024 13:09 UTC