China: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and other southern regions as of Sept. 8

Event

Disruptions due to severe flooding are ongoing across parts of southern China as of Sept. 8. Record-breaking heavy rainfall since late Sept. 7 associated with the remnants of Typhoon Haikui has been recorded in parts of the affected region and has triggered widespread flooding and landslides across several areas. Hong Kong recorded its highest hourly rainfall total since records began of nearly 16 cm (6.3 inches) late Sept. 7, with the downpours triggering widespread flooding across parts of the territory. Parts of the northern New Territories, including the Sheung Shui, Ta Kwu Ling, and Sha Tau Kok areas are amongst the worst affected. Transport disruptions have been reported in many areas due to flooded roads and border control points have been closed. Bus and metro services have been disrupted and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange has suspended trading Sept. 8. Authorities have reported at least 102 people have been treated in hospital for storm-related injuries. Schools across Hong Kong have been shut and workers have been advised to stay at home Sept. 8.

Flooding has also been reported in Shenzhen and other parts of Guangdong Province. Authorities in Shenzhen have opened around 151 emergency shelters for those affected by flooding. Metro and other transport services have been disrupted in the city and all schools and many businesses have closed Sept. 8. Officials have also been forced to release water from the Shenzhen Reservoir due to rising levels, prompting further flooding concerns for areas downstream of the reservoir. Flooding and associated disruptions have also been reported in the cities of Dongguan, Guangzhou, and Zhuhai.

Further severe weather is forecast across the region over the coming hours and days. As of late Sept. 8, The Hong Kong Observatory is maintaining a black rainstorm warning (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across the territory, as well as landslip and thunderstorm warnings. A special announcement on flooding has also been issued, warning of heavy rainfall and possible flash flooding in the northern New Territories. The China Meteorological Administration has issued a yellow rainstorm warning (the second lowest level on a four-tier scale) for parts of central, southeastern, and western Guangdong and southeastern Guangxi provinces through Sept. 9. Rainfall totals of 10-12 (3.9-4.7 inches) are possible along the central and southwestern Guangdong coasts. Orange and yellow landslide warnings are also in place for parts of central and eastern Guangdong. Local observatories have issued numerous red, orange, yellow, and blue rainstorm warnings and yellow thunderstorm warnings across parts of the affected area, Additional rainfall could trigger further flooding and landslides; areas where the ground is already saturated from previous heavy rainfall are likely to be the most susceptible.

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 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. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers.

Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming days. Review contingency plans and be prepared to move quickly to shelters if evacuation orders are issued. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

China Meteorological Administration
Hong Kong Observatory