Tropical storm causes some flooding in eastern China

Tropical Storm Dolphin Brings Heavy Rain and Flooding to Eastern China

Tyunews.com – BEIJING — A tropical storm causes some flooding in eastern China as Tropical Storm Dolphin dumped heavy rain across the region on Monday. The weather system made landfall as a typhoon the previous day, bringing significant precipitation to coastal areas. Authorities have issued warnings about risks of severe flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas. According to Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration, Dolphin had maximum sustained winds of 65 kph (40 mph) in the morning and was continuing to weaken as it moved inland.

Storm Movement and Regional Impact

The China Meteorological Administration reported that Dolphin was moving northwest at 15 to 20 kilometers per hour (9 to 12 mph) and was expected to continue weakening until it dissipates. The storm made landfall Sunday evening in Taizhou in Zhejiang province with winds of 151 kph (93 mph), after bringing heavy rain to northern Taiwan over the weekend. State broadcaster CCTV reported that authorities in Yueqing, a city in Zhejiang province, searched for people trapped in flooded homes and began clearing broken branches from streets. This tropical storm causes some flooding that has disrupted daily life in several communities.

Before the typhoon hit, more than 300,000 people were preemptively relocated and Shanghai’s two airports canceled more than 1,300 flights. The extensive preparations demonstrate how seriously officials took the approaching weather system. While the tropical storm causes some flooding primarily in eastern China, its effects were felt across multiple regions.

“Dolphin was moving northwest at 15 to 20 kilometers per hour and was expected to continue weakening until it dissipates,” said the China Meteorological Administration.

Although Dolphin did not directly hit the Philippines, it helped intensify seasonal monsoon rains that set off flooding and landslides on the main northern island region of Luzon. A landslide buried three houses Sunday night in the northern mountain resort city of Baguio, killing five people with at least five others still missing, officials said. A frantic search for the missing was continuing Monday despite intermittent rains.

Three people were dug out alive by rescuers and brought to a hospital, Baguio officials said. The deaths from the mudslide raised the death toll in nearly a week of torrential rains, floods and a tropical storm last week in the northern Luzon region to 15, the government’s Office of Civil Defense said. More than a million people were affected by the heavy monsoon rains and floods, including about 98,000 who were displaced from their homes.

About 58,000 of the displaced evacuated to some 642 government-run emergency shelters, Laurence Mina of the government’s Office of Civil Defense said. The ongoing situation shows how a tropical storm causes some flooding that extends beyond its immediate path. Elsewhere, Tropical Storm Chan-hom was heading toward Japan’s Pacific coast, adding to the regional weather concerns.

The storm had 83 kph (51 mph) winds Monday morning and was forecast to strengthen slightly before landfall Tuesday into Wednesday, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. As weather systems continue to develop across Asia, residents remain vigilant about potential impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tropical Storm Dolphin

What areas are most affected by the flooding?

The eastern coastal regions of China, particularly Zhejiang province, are experiencing the most significant flooding. Cities like Taizhou and Yueqing have reported water levels rising in residential areas.

How many people have been relocated?

More than 300,000 people were preemptively relocated before the storm made landfall, demonstrating the scale of emergency preparations.

What is the current status of the storm?

Dolphin is moving northwest at 15-20 km/h with sustained winds of 65 kph and is expected to continue weakening as it moves inland.

Are flights being affected?

Yes, Shanghai’s two airports canceled more than 1,300 flights before the storm arrived, and additional cancellations may occur as conditions evolve.