China: Adverse weather forecast in southern provinces through at least April 27

Event

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of southern and southeastern China through at least April 27. As of April 25, the China Meteorological Administration has issued a blue (the lowest level on a four-tier scale) rainstorm warning for parts of southern Anhui, northwestern Fujian, northern Guangdong, northern Guangxi, southeastern Guizhou, eastern and southern Hunan, eastern and southern Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shanghai, and central and western Zhejiang provinces. The heaviest downpours are likely over central and northeastern Jiangxi and southeastern Hunan provinces, with a forecast of 10-12 cm (4-5 inches). The heavy rainfall may be accompanied in places by strong winds, thunderstorms, or hail.

A yellow severe convective weather warning is in place for southeastern Anhui, northeastern Hebei, eastern Hunan, central and southern Jiangsu, central and northern Jiangxi, central and western Jilin, western Liaoning, Shanghai, and Zhejiang provinces. Thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds are likely across the affected area with the strongest winds forecast over eastern and southern Anhui, Fujian, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shanghai, and Zhejiang provinces.

Regional and local meteorological observatories have issued several weather warnings ranging from blue to orange severity (the lowest to the second-highest on a four-tier scale) for heavy rainfall, lightning, thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds across the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. 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
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. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region, including but not limited to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) and Hangzhou Xiaoshan International (HGH) airports

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