China: Disruptions, evacuations due to flooding ongoing in Guangxi region as of May 19

As of May 19, disruptions, evacuations, and emergency responses are ongoing due to flooding in the Guangxi region in southern China. Reports suggest that extraordinary rainfall across the autonomous region caused waterlogging in several areas, including Qinzhou, Fangchenggang, and Nanning; Nanning and Qinzhou are especially affected, with localized evacuations. Ground travel in urban areas has been severely disrupted, and authorities have suspended at least 30 passenger trains until at least May 20. Flights to and from Nanning Wuxu International Airport (NNG) have reportedly been disrupted. Authorities have deployed equipment and emergency response personnel to the impacted area for flood control and prevention.

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 heavy rain has saturated the soil. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

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 also cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

The disruptive weather may cause delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved—it could take days before floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.

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.