China, Vietnam: Adverse weather forecast across parts of southwestern China and northern Vietnam through at least March 16

Event

Severe weather, including thunderstorms, strong winds, hail, and heavy rainfall, is forecast across parts of Yunnan Province in southwestern China and north and north-central regions of Vietnam through at least March 16.

As of March 15, authorities have issued a number of weather warnings across Yunnan Province. Orange hail warnings (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) have been issued across Pu'er City, Honghe Hani and Yi, and Wenshan Zhuang and Miao autonomous prefectures. Yellow lightning warnings have been issued across southern and central parts of the province. Orange and yellow warnings for forest fire risk and high temperatures have been issued across western and northern parts of the province. A yellow strong wind warning has been issued for Chengjiang County in Yuxi City and blue wind warnings have been issued across northern and central parts of the province.

Vietnam's National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has issued a severe weather warning for thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, lightning, hail, strong winds, and possible tornadoes across north and north-central Vietnam through March 16. Rainfall amounts of 3-6 cm (1-2 inches) in 24 hours are possible across the affected area, with localized amounts of over 9 cm (4 inches). Heavy rainfall could trigger flash flooding and landslides in elevated areas. The NCHMF has issued a level 1 warning of natural disaster risk due to hail, tornadoes, and lightning.

Hazardous Conditions
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 possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the affected region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

Advice

Confirm flights. Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Review contingency plans and be prepared to move quickly to shelter if tornado warnings are issued. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

China Meteorological Administration (Chinese)
Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) (Vietnamese)