China: Disruptions due to flooding likely to continue in central regions into late July

Disruptions due to flooding are expected to persist in various central regions into late July. The provinces most affected include Anhui, Gansu, Jiangsu, Henan, Shaanxi, and Shandong. In Henan, heavy rainfall has occurred since July 14, leading to consequent disruptions in train services and other transportation across the province. Nanyang, Shangqiu, Zhoukou, Kaifeng, and other areas have issued the highest level of red warnings for rainstorms. Beijing has temporarily suspended 163 passenger trains passing through Henan until July 18. In Sheqi County, Henan Province, officials have evacuated at least 10,000 people as relocation efforts continue in affected areas.

In Shaanxi Province, heavy rainfall has triggered landslides along two major thoroughfares in Baoji city, causing localized transport disruptions. In eastern and southern Gansu Province, officials have suspended 38 passenger train services in Longnan, with services set to resume from July 19. Similar disruptions have been reported in southern Shandong Province and several neighboring regions.

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 or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites 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.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges 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. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected areas.

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.