China: Blue alert issued for Typhoon Soulik August 21

Event

On Tuesday, August 21, the Chinese weather agency issued a blue alert for Typhoon Soulik, which is expected to enter the East China Sea Tuesday evening (local time). As of 08:00, the typhoon's path remained relatively uncertain; at that time Soulik was moving northwestward at a speed of 25 km/h (15 mph) and gaining strength. Heavy rain and gales are expected.  

Context

Soulik is the region's 19th typhoon of the year. China has a four-tier color-coded weather warning system for typhoons: red is the most severe, followed by orange, yellow, and blue.

Advice

Individuals present in China are advised to keep abreast of the situation, anticipate transportation and power disruptions, obey instructions issued by the local authorities, and avoid flood-prone areas until the situation stabilizes. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded..