K2Cargo.News previously reported on Typhoon Dolphin approaching China and the risks it posed to the country’s eastern regions. Those forecasts are now being confirmed, with heavy rains causing flooding, disrupting infrastructure and prompting authorities to introduce additional safety measures.
The typhoon, the most powerful storm to hit China this year, moved inland after making landfall. In Hubei province, heavy rainfall has flooded streets, forced tourist attractions to close and led to the suspension of construction work. Water levels at several reservoirs have exceeded flood-control thresholds, prompting authorities to evacuate nearly 10,000 people.
Heavy Rain Threatens Central Regions
China’s National Meteorological Center has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall, the second-highest level of warning. Some areas of Hubei could receive up to 250 mm of rain within 24 hours. Neighboring Henan province has issued a red alert for flash floods, with rainfall of up to 350 mm possible in some areas.
Authorities in Hubei have temporarily closed dozens of tourist attractions, including the Three Gorges scenic area, and suspended 26 high-risk highway and waterway construction projects.
Beijing Braces for Severe Weather
The storm’s impact has already reached Beijing. The highest level of flood emergency response has been activated in four districts of the capital. Forecasters warn that the city could receive more than one-third of its annual rainfall within 24 hours.
Meanwhile, emergency and municipal services in affected areas continue to pump out floodwater, clear roads and prepare for further deterioration in weather conditions.
Read also: China Braces for Typhoon Dolphin as Torrential Rains Soak Beijing
