13 Apr 2022 | 02:59 PM UTC
China: Disruptions due to storm ongoing in parts of Sichuan Province as of April 13; further adverse weather forecast
Disruptions ongoing after strong storm hits parts of Sichuan Province, China, as of April 13; further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Power outages are ongoing in parts of Sichuan Province as of April 13 after strong storms struck the region. Intense winds, heavy rainfall, and hail late April 11 left around 400,000 households in Ziyang without power due to damaged power lines. As of late April 12, around 350,000 households were still without power and authorities were working to restore services April 13. Around 10,000 people across Anyue County were affected by the storms, with 20 sustaining injuries. Over 100 houses were damaged in the storm. Winds of up to 135 kph (84 mph) were recorded and over 10 cm (4 inches) of rainfall fell during the storm.
As of early April 13, meteorological observatories in Sichuan Province have issued yellow (the second lowest level on a four-tier scale) lightning warnings across central parts of the province, as well as blue strong wind and cold weather warnings across eastern and southern parts of the province.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the 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 airports in the region.
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.