Title: Torrential Rain and Flooding Disrupts Life in Southeastern China
Date: September 6, 2023
China’s southeastern provinces faced severe disruption as intense rain from the remnants of Typhoon Haikui caused devastating floods and waterlogging. The affected areas were forced to suspend subway services, close schools, and evacuate tens of thousands of residents.
Early on Wednesday, southeastern China experienced heavy rain, breaking 12-year-old records in Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian province. As a result, weather officials issued warnings that 49 reservoirs had surpassed their flood limits.
The impact of the rainfall was extensive. More than 36,000 individuals were evacuated from their homes, and the floods caused damage to power and communication networks. Additionally, nearly 4,195 hectares (10,366 acres) of farmland were inundated, resulting in an estimated loss of 552.1 million yuan ($75 million), according to state broadcaster reports.
Videos on social media platforms displayed floodwaters rushing through the streets of Fuzhou and the neighboring city of Fuqing. The powerful torrents knocked over motorcycles, trash bins, and left cars stranded. Media reports showcased submerged cars, marooned shops and apartments, as well as landslides and mudslides.
Fuzhou, one of the worst-affected cities, encountered cumulative rainfall of up to 554 mm (1.8 feet) on Tuesday, with a record-breaking hourly total of close to 150 mm (0.5 ft). Remarkably, this figure surpassed the volume brought by Typhoon Doksuri in late July, which had already caused floods and losses amounting to $2 billion.
In response to the disaster, Fuzhou shut down subway lines, suspended train services, and temporarily closed schools for a second consecutive day. This flooding event has underscored the vulnerabilities of urban drainage and other critical infrastructure in various cities across Fujian, as stated by Chen Yunong, a provincial official.
To address the recurring problem of waterlogging, authorities emphasized the need for improved drainage systems in both old cities and new urban areas. The provincial government urged local authorities in six cities, including Putian and Quanzhou, to be vigilant and prepare for potential flash floods and landslides.
The heavy rain is expected to continue until Friday across central and southern parts of Fujian province, which bore the brunt of Typhoon Haikui as it made landfall on Tuesday before weakening into a tropical storm.
As the affected regions continue to grapple with the aftermath of the flooding, the focus remains on providing relief and ensuring the safety of residents.