Apr.11 (GMM) A storm, bringing gale force winds, has caused damage at the Chinese grand prix circuit in Shanghai.

As A1GP teams practiced at the track on Friday, it emerged that some of the grandstands - most notably the circular awnings providing cover, but also some rows of the actual seating - had been ripped apart in the storm.

The Shanghai Meteorological Bureau had issued a 'blue gale alert' storm warning on Thursday evening.

"The storm was caused by a cyclone moving north in the Yangtze and Huaihe river valleys," a forecaster said.

The Chinese grand prix will be held in October.