Typhoon Dolphin has weakened after making landfall along China’s eastern coast, but the storm continues to bring heavy rainfall and create risks of flooding and landslides across parts of the region. More than 1 million people were evacuated ahead of the storm as authorities prepared for severe weather.
Typhoon weakens after landfall
Dolphin made landfall in Zhejiang province on Sunday, August 9, bringing powerful winds and torrential rain.
By Monday, August 10, the system had weakened to a tropical storm as it moved inland. However, the danger has not completely ended, as the weakening storm continues to produce heavy rainfall.
More than 1 million people evacuated
Chinese authorities carried out large scale evacuations before the storm reached the coast.
➤ More than 1 million people were evacuated across eastern China.
➤ More than 900,000 residents were relocated in Wenzhou, Zhejiang.
➤ Nearly 99,000 people were moved to safer locations in Fujian.
➤ More than 215,000 people were evacuated in Shanghai.
The evacuations were carried out to protect residents from strong winds, flooding and landslides.
Shanghai records exceptional rainfall
Shanghai experienced some of the most significant impacts from the storm.
The city recorded its highest 24 hour rainfall in more than 150 years, according to reports. Heavy rain created flooding concerns and disrupted normal life across parts of the city.
Authorities urged residents to remain cautious as continued rainfall could worsen flooding in low lying areas.
Major travel disruption
Typhoon Dolphin caused widespread disruption to air and ground transportation.
More than 1,300 flights were cancelled in Shanghai, while railway and subway services were suspended or disrupted in several areas.
Some transport services began preparing to resume as weather conditions improved, but delays and cancellations continued.
Flooding and landslide risks remain
Although Dolphin is weakening, authorities remain concerned about flash floods, river flooding and landslides.
Heavy rainfall continues across parts of eastern China, including areas around Shanghai, Jiangsu and Henan. Emergency authorities are monitoring rivers, drainage systems and locations vulnerable to landslides.
Impact beyond China
The storm also affected other parts of East and Southeast Asia.
➤ Taiwan: Ferry services and flights were cancelled because of strong winds and heavy rain.
➤ Japan: Okinawa reported injuries and power outages.
➤ Philippines: Dolphin intensified monsoon rainfall, contributing to flooding and a landslide.
➤ Hong Kong: The storm contributed to extreme weather conditions.
What happens next?
The immediate threat from the typhoon’s strongest winds is declining, but the flooding threat remains serious because of continuing heavy rainfall.
Authorities are focusing on emergency response, monitoring water levels and restoring transport services. Residents in vulnerable areas have been urged to follow official weather and evacuation warnings.
