China: Response operations ongoing as of July 21 following multiple tornadoes across parts of Jiangsu Province

Event

As of July 21, emergency crews are continuing to respond to the aftermath of several tornadoes that struck parts of Jiangsu Province on July 20. At least five tornadoes are reported to have spawned in the province during the outbreak of severe weather, damaging thousands of homes, vehicles, crops, and other infrastructure. Areas affected by the tornadoes include parts of Guanyun County and Haizhou District in Lianyungang and Xiangshui County in Yancheng. Authorities have reported at least one fatality and 25 injuries associated with the severe weather. Over 2,000 people have been affected by the tornadoes across at least 11 villages.

Ongoing response and recovery operations, as well as tornado damage to transport networks, are likely to result in localized ground travel delays in the affected areas over the coming days. Power outages are possible in the region due to damage to electricity supply infrastructure.

Advice

Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in affected areas; some roads could be closed for days. Confirm regional train reservations. Plan accordingly for commercial, transport, and logistical disruptions in the affected parts of Jiangsu. Charge battery-powered devices in preparation for potentially lengthy power outages. Heed instructions from the authorities.