China: Severe weather causing flooding and disruptions in several provinces as of July 23 /update 2

Event

Heavy rains are causing flooding and disruptions in several areas of mainland China. As of early July 23, the China Meteorological Administration has issued a blue (the lowest level on a four-tier scale) rainstorm warning for southern Guangdong, southern Guangxi, western Hainan, western Henan, northeastern Inner Mongolia, southeastern Shanxi, southern Shaanxi, western Hubei, eastern and western Yunnan, and eastern Zhejiang provinces. Officials have also issued strong winds and landslide warnings for southwestern Hebei, eastern and southern Shanxi, and central and northern Henan.

Reports indicate that two dams in Hulunbuir City in Inner Mongolia Province collapsed July 19. At least 47,000 people from the province have been affected. Around 33 people have died in Henan Province, including 12 people who died in Zhengzhou City when the subway system flooded following heavy rains. At least 3 million people are living with flood conditions across Henan. In Zhengzhou City, heavy rainfall led to the closure of the subway system in the city July 20. Some services have since resumed but rail and subway disruptions are likely due to ongoing power outages and residual flooding. Some traffic disruptions are ongoing. The Jingguang Road Tunnel along Zhengzhou Expressway remains flooded and is impassable. Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) closed July 20-21; services have since resumed. As of July 23, Zhengzhou City has downgraded its emergency response level from Level 1 (the highest level) to Level 3. In Luoyang City, Henan Province, authorities stated that Yihetan Dam is in danger of collapsing due to a 20m (66 feet) breach. The military reportedly blasted the dam to release floodwaters late July 21, flooding areas downstream.

Hazardous Conditions
Heavy rains have caused significant flooding in several areas, including Zhengzhou City in Henan Province, as of July 23. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are also possible, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Landslides could result in structures being damaged or destroyed. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Flooding has caused significant transport disruptions, with roadways in affected areas becoming waterlogged. Multiple bridges have been damaged or destroyed in affected areas. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or other roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Airport authorities may also delay or cancel flights due to adverse weather conditions.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Resources

China Meteorological Administration
China Ministry of Water Resources