Over 1,300 Flights Canceled in Shanghai as China Prepares for Typhoon ‘Dolphin’

As Typhoon ‘Dolphin’ advances toward eastern China, Shanghai’s two main airports canceled more than 1,300 flights on Sunday. Authorities have reported relocating over 400,000 people from various affected areas to safer locations in anticipation of the storm. Meteorologists predict 200 to 400 millimeters of rainfall in Zhejiang and Fujian provinces over the coming days, raising the risk of flooding and landslides. (24 Saun, Beijing)

The typhoon’s outer bands brought heavy rainfall to northern Taiwan on Saturday, prompting some airlines to cancel flights to China on Sunday. By Sunday morning, the typhoon’s maximum sustained winds were estimated at approximately 162 kilometers per hour. Officials stated that the heavy rainfall caused by the typhoon is intensifying the risk of floods and landslides. The storm is expected to reach Zhejiang province and the northern part of neighboring Fujian province by Sunday evening.

Shanghai’s Hongqiao and Pudong airports suspended about 60 percent of scheduled flights on Sunday. By Saturday evening, around 390,000 people had been relocated to safe locations from Taizhou city in Zhejiang province. Additionally, more than 30,000 individuals were moved from high-risk areas in Shanghai to other locations. Zhejiang authorities have already halted all maritime activities, including cruises. A high alert has been issued urging everyone to remain vigilant against potential flooding and landslides.