28 Jun 2023 | 06:24 AM UTC
China: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of Sichuan province as of June 28
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of Sichuan Province, China, as of June 28. Fatalities reported. Evacuations ongoing.
Event
Disruptions due to severe flooding and landslides are ongoing across parts of Sichuan Province as of June 28. Heavy rainfall triggered widespread flooding across the province and landslides in Miansi and Weizhou townships in Wenchuan County. Authorities have evacuated more than 900 people and have confirmed four fatalities in Miansi Township June 27. At least three other people remain missing.
Further severe weather is forecast. The China Meteorological Administration has issued blue (lowest level on a four-tier scale) rainfall and yellow landslide warnings across eastern and northeastern Sichuan Province. Rainfall is forecast to persist across the province through at least July 7; rainfall accumulations of 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) are forecast. Additional rainfall could trigger landslides and is likely to hamper rescue and recovery efforts.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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. 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.
