China: Severe weather forecast across southern regions through at least April 20

Severe weather is forecast across parts of southern China through at least April 20. As of April 15, the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) has issued yellow severe convective weather warnings (the second-lowest level on a four-tier scale) across parts of the affected area. Thunderstorms are likely across parts of eastern Hubei, central, northern, and southeastern Hunan, central and northern Jiangxi, southern Zhejiang, central and northern Fujian, and northern and central Guizhou provinces, with more intense storms accompanied by strong winds and hail possible in southern Hubei, Hunan, central and northern Jiangxi, southern Zhejiang, northern Fujian, eastern Sichuan Basin, Chongqing, central and eastern Guizhou, and northern Guangxi. Hourly rainfall totals of 3-6 cm (1.2-2.4 inches), with isolated amounts over 7 cm (2.8 inches), are possible during storms.

Blue heavy rain warnings are in place for parts of central and northern Hunan, central and northern Jiangxi, northwestern Fujian, southern Hubei, and northern Chongqing provinces late April 15-16. The heaviest rainfall totals are expected in parts of central Hunan and central Jiangxi, where 10-14 cm (3.9-5.5 inches) are possible. Further moderate-to-heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of the affected area through April 20.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger 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 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.

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 cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the east coast 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.