(Clearwisdom.net)

[Editors' note: Throughout history, the theme that a nation's fate is closely tied to the virtue of its leaders and people has been prevalent in both Chinese and Western culture and lore. Many wise, virtuous kings have led their nations to peace and prosperity, while conversely, moral decay in high places has led to the downfall of great empires. These articles are meant to serve as a reminder and wake-up call for those who are leading or participating in large-scale acts of violence and injustice. As Teacher Li Hongzhi said in Essentials for Further Advancement, "When people do not have virtue, natural calamities and man-made disasters will abound."]

The worst snowstorm in the past 30 years hit the Baluntai mountain area of northern Jing County in Xinjiang Autonomous Region this June. The deepest snow was measured at 50 to 80 centimeters [about 20 to 31 inches], causing more than 100 kilometers on State Highway No. 216, No. 218 and Provincial Highway No. 321 to be closed, while more than 50 vehicles and nearly 100 people were stuck on the road. The snowstorm cost the local herdsmen heavy losses.