China: Adverse weather forecast across parts of the southern region through at least July 2 /update 1

Event

Thunderstorms with rounds of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast to occur across parts of southern China through at least July 2. The China Meteorological Administration has issued a yellow (second-lowest level on a four-tier scale) rainstorm warning for far northern Fujian, northern Hunan, northern and western Jiangxi, southeastern Sichuan, northern Guangxi, Guizhou, eastern Yunnan, and southwestern Zhejiang provinces through July 2. Heavy rainfall of 10-18 cm (4-7 inches) is possible in northeastern Guangxi. Orange and yellow strong wind warnings are in place for southern Chongqing, northwestern Fujian, northwest Guangxi, north-central Guizhou, southwestern Hubei, northwestern Hunan, northeastern Jiangxi, southeastern Sichuan, northeastern and western Yunnan, and southwestern Zhejiang. Orange and yellow flood warnings are also in place for southern Anhui, northern Fujian, eastern Guizhou, northwest Guangxi, central and eastern Jiangxi, southeastern Sichuan, and western Zhejiang.

Storms in this region are not forecast to be widespread or long-lived. Isolated intense storms are possible, which may contain hail and damaging winds.

Hazardous Conditions
Should sustained heavy rainfall occur, it could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of 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 possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel 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.

Severe weather could also trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Out of an abundance of caution, confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where adverse weather has been forecast. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

China Meteorological Administration
China Ministry of Water Resources