Typhoon Dolphin Triggers Chaos In China, Over 1,300 Flights Cancelled At Shanghai Airports

Beijing: After shaking Taiwan, Typhoon Dolphin is now moving towards the east coast of China. Given its speed and strength, there was massive devastation in Shanghai on Sunday. More than 1,300 flights had to be cancelled from both Hongqiao and Pudong airports. There is an alert of torrential rain with strong wind in the coastal areas. The government has deployed rescue teams in flood and landslide areas.

Why is the storm now moving towards China?

Dolphin hit northern parts of Taiwan on Saturday. Heavy rain occurred in many areas including the capital Taipei. After this the storm continued moving towards China. Its maximum sustained wind speed was recorded at around 162 kilometers per hour on Sunday morning. According to the estimates of the Meteorological Department, its maximum impact can be seen in some parts of Zhejiang and Fujian.

Why did more than 1300 flights have to be cancelled in Shanghai?

There has also been a major impact on air traffic due to the storm. About 60 percent of Sunday's scheduled flights were cancelled at both major airports in Shanghai. The number of cancelled flights from both the airports combined was more than 1300. In view of the bad weather, there is a possibility of further impact on flight operations in the coming hours.

Where is the risk of rain greatest?

Due to dolphins, there has been a warning of heavy rain in the eastern part of China during the next few days. According to Reuters, some parts of Zhejiang may receive 250 to 500 mm of rain. Due to continuous heavy rains, the water level of rivers may rise and there may be a danger of floods in low-lying areas and landslides in hilly areas.

Ban imposed on movement in the sea also?

China's coastal authorities have begun limiting maritime activities ahead of the storm. Ferry and cruise services have been halted in Zhejiang. Ships have also been instructed to return to safe places. More than 500 ships have been moved to a safe place from Shanghai's Yangshan Port.

Were lakhs of people evacuated to safe places?

In view of the fear of the storm, a large number of people in China have been sent to safe places. In Taizhou city of Zhejiang, about 3.90 lakh people were evacuated from potentially dangerous areas and taken to safe places. At the same time, more than 30 thousand people have been evacuated from sensitive areas of Shanghai. Officials have asked people living in areas prone to floods and landslides to remain alert.

What will happen next?

After the storm hits the coast, its wind speed will gradually reduce. But the effect of rain will last for several days. The biggest concern of the administration right now is floods and landslides. Emergency alert continues in Zhejiang and Fujian. Air and sea traffic is being continuously monitored in Shanghai. At present, the next 48 hours are very important for the east coast of China.