China: Heavy rain forecast in south and east May 2-3

Event

Heavy rain is forecast in most parts of southern and eastern China on Wednesday, May 2, and Thursday, May 3. Among the areas forecast to be most severely affected by the storms are the provinces of Guizhou, Yunnan, Guangdong, and Fujian, which may receive up to 13 cm (5 in) of rain, according to the National Meteorological Center (NMC). Rainfall, moderate to heavy at times, is also forecast to affect the regions of Xinjiang and Tibet, as well as areas in northeastern China. Heavy fog is forecast to affect coastal parts of Shandong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang provinces over the same period.

Localized flooding is possible in affected areas. Consequent road and air transportation disruptions (including from hazardous driving conditions, road closures, and flight delays and cancelations) are possible in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, avoid areas directly hit by consequent flooding, anticipate transportation disruptions, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.