China has taken sweeping emergency measures as Typhoon Dolphin approaches its eastern coast, forcing the cancellation of more than 1,300 flights in Shanghai and prompting authorities to evacuate nearly 420,000 people from vulnerable areas. The powerful storm, which has already brought heavy rainfall to northern Taiwan, is expected to make landfall near Zhejiang and northern Fujian provinces, raising concerns over flooding, landslides and major disruption to transportation and tourism.
Shanghai Airports Cancel More Than 1,300 Flights
Shanghai’s two major airports, Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao International Airport, have canceled more than 1,300 flights as the storm approaches. According to Shanghai state media, around 60 percent of the flights scheduled for Sunday at both airports were canceled. The disruption is expected to affect both domestic and international travelers, with passengers advised to check their flight status and make alternative travel arrangements where necessary. Several Taiwanese airlines have also canceled flights to mainland China as a precaution against worsening weather conditions.
Nearly 420,000 People Evacuated
Authorities have begun large-scale evacuations in areas considered vulnerable to flooding, landslides and strong winds. In Zhejiang Province, officials evacuated approximately 390,000 people in Taizhou on Saturday evening. Shanghai authorities separately moved more than 30,000 residents from higher-risk areas. The evacuations reflect growing concerns that the storm could cause significant damage in low-lying and mountainous areas as heavy rainfall combines with strong winds.
Storm Brings Heavy Rain and Strong Winds
Typhoon Dolphin had maximum sustained winds of approximately 162 kilometers per hour (101 mph) as of Sunday morning. The storm’s outer bands had already reached northern Taiwan, including the capital Taipei, bringing heavy rainfall and deteriorating weather conditions. Forecasters in China are expecting between 200 and 400 millimeters (7.9–15.7 inches) of rainfall in some areas over the coming days. Such intense rainfall could overwhelm drainage systems and rivers, increasing the possibility of flash floods and urban flooding.
Severe Landslide Risk in Zhejiang
Authorities have issued particular warnings for Zhejiang, where mountainous terrain combined with prolonged heavy rain could trigger landslides. The risk is especially significant in areas where saturated soil and steep slopes could become unstable. Residents and travelers have been urged to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow instructions issued by local authorities.
Ferries and Cruises Suspended
The storm has also brought major disruption to water-based transportation and tourism activities. Zhejiang authorities have suspended all water-based activities, including ferries and cruises, as part of the emergency response. The suspension is intended to protect passengers and operators from dangerous sea conditions, strong winds and reduced visibility. The measures could also affect coastal tourism, sightseeing cruises and other recreational activities until weather conditions improve.
Tourism and Travel Disruptions Expected
The combination of flight cancellations, ferry suspensions and evacuations is expected to significantly affect travel across parts of eastern China. Tourists traveling through Shanghai, Zhejiang and neighboring areas may face delays, cancellations and temporary closures of attractions and transportation services. Air passengers are being advised to confirm flight schedules directly with airlines and airports before traveling, while visitors in affected coastal and mountainous destinations should closely monitor local weather and emergency announcements.
China Authorities Step Up Emergency Preparations
Chinese authorities are strengthening emergency measures as Typhoon Dolphin approaches, with evacuation, transportation suspensions and weather monitoring already underway. The immediate priorities are protecting residents, preventing casualties and minimizing the impact of flooding and landslides. With heavy rainfall forecast to continue for several days, authorities remain on alert for further disruptions as the typhoon moves toward eastern China. The combination of powerful winds, intense rainfall, and widespread transportation shutdowns has turned Typhoon Dolphin into a major travel and disaster-management challenge for eastern China, with Shanghai and Zhejiang at the center of the preparations.
