Record-breaking freeze grips China as government prepares emergency response

<p>Temperatures in parts of China have hit their lowest levels since records began according to reports from State Media. </p><p>China's agriculture ministry has launched an emergency response. </p><p>China's national disaster prevention body issued a directive to local authorities to prepare emergency plans, including to store thermal coal in advance "to ensure the normal power generation of power plants during the critical period".</p><p>Conditions may be easing in Beijing where local forecasts have reduced the severity of its weather warning. Schools will reopen for in-person classes after shutting for several days last week.</p>

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.