China: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across Hainan Province as of Oct. 31

Disruptions due to severe flooding are ongoing across Hainan Province as of Oct. 31. Heavy rainfall associated with the remnants of Typhoon Trami Oct. 26-30 has triggered widespread flooding across many parts of the province. Daily rainfall totals of 54 cm (21 inches) were recorded in Wanning and Sanya Oct. 28. Many rivers are at dangerous levels and several landslides have been triggered by the downpours. Authorities have reported at least seven flood-related fatalities across the province and one other person remains missing. Authorities have evacuated more than 40,000 people due to flooding across the region. The Ministry of Water Resources has issued the highest level 4 flood emergency response for Hainan. Generally drier conditions are forecast across Hainan Oct. 31-Nov. 2, before further showers are forecast Nov. 3-6, with heavy downpours at times.

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. Where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks, disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible.

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.

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 waterborne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.