China: Disruptions due to severe flooding ongoing across eastern, southern, and central regions as of early July 18

Event

Severe flooding continues to impact parts of Gansu and Sichuan provinces as of early July 18, while severe weather is forecast for many parts of southern, central, and eastern China through at least July 20. Continuous heavy rainfall over recent weeks has led to many rivers across the region rising to dangerously high levels. The flooding has caused multiple fatalities, affected hundreds of thousands of people, and forced many to leave their homes in recent weeks. Further adverse weather forecast in the coming days is likely to exacerbate the situation.

Authorities in Sichuan Province have evacuated at least 51,700 people due to the heavy rain triggering flash floods as of early July 17. At least six people have died and 12 others remain missing. Around 58,000 people across seven cities of the province have been impacted by flooding. Authorities have confirmed six fatalities in Longnan City, Gansu Province and have evacuated more than 3,000 people. The flooding has impacted more than 97,000 people across Gansu Province.

As of July 18, the China Meteorological Administration has warned of heavy rainfall across the affected area through at least July 20. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days. Heavy rainfall is likely to exacerbate the current situation or hamper recovery and relief efforts. Additional rainfall could also lead to further floods and flash floods over already saturated soil or along rivers with high water levels.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further 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 additional 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
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or 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.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancelations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

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.

Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

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 and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

China Meteorological Administration
China Ministry of Water Resources