China: Severe weather causing flooding and disruptions in several provinces as of July 21 /update 1

Event

Heavy rains are causing flooding and disruptions in several areas of mainland China as of July 21. As of early July 21, the China Meteorological Administration has issued an orange (the second-highest level on a four-tier scale) rainstorm warning for central and northern Henan, central and southern Hebei, eastern Shanxi, the coastal areas of central and western Guangdong, southeastern Guangxi, northwestern Hainan Island, and southern Yunnan. Officials have also issued flood and landslide warnings for southern Hebei, central and northern Henan, southeastern Guangdong, southern Guangxi, southeastern Shanxi, and southern Yunnan. Officials also forecast that several rivers in the Amur, Haihe, Huai, Pearl and Yellow river basins may experience localized flooding.

Reports indicate that two dams in Hulunbuir City in Inner Mongolia Province collapsed July 19. At least 12 people have died, and 100,000 people evacuated following heavy rains in Zhengzhou City, Henan Province. The heavy rainfall has flooded, leading to the closure of the subway system in the city. Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) is closed through at least 12:00 July 21 and has suspended subways and intercity trains heading to and from the airport. In Luoyang City, Henan Province, authorities stated that Yihetan Dam is in danger of collapsing due to a 20m (66 feet) breach.

Hazardous Conditions
Heavy rains have caused significant flooding in several areas, including Zhengzhou City in Henan Province, as of July 21. 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 also possible, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Landslides could result in structures being damaged or destroyed. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Flooding has caused significant transport disruptions, with roadways in affected areas becoming waterlogged. Multiple bridges have been damaged or destroyed in affected areas. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or other 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. Freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Airport authorities may also delay or cancel flights due to adverse weather conditions.

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.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Resources

China Meteorological Administration
China Ministry of Water Resources