| By Eliana Pisons |
Typhoon Continues Trend of Increasing Damage From Global Warming
Typhoon Gaemi unleashed significant destruction across China with a fatal Landslide in Hunan in southern Hunan province. Heavy rainfall from the late-July storm triggered a deadly landslide near Hengyang city. The landslide claimed the lives of 12 people and injured six others. The victims were trapped in the landslide, with emergency responders managing to rescue six survivors. Hunan provincial authorities have issued a flood warning as the region continues to experience heavy rains.
Over 27,000 people were evacuated as the storm caused severe flooding. The deputy mayor of Linjiang city and another official went missing during flood rescue efforts. Hundreds of factories suspended operations, and authorities warned of the possibility of major flood disasters. Linjiang city authorities took precautionary measures by shutting down schools, factories, and businesses.
Coastal Areas Bear the Brunt of Relentless Rainfall
Impact on Coastal Fujian and Liaoning Gaemi lashed coastal towns in Fujian province with heavy rains and strong winds before moving inland. The storm raised water levels in 40 reservoirs across Liaoning province, prompting further flood warnings. Hundreds of chemical and mining companies in Liaoning suspended operations, and nearby residents were relocated to avoid flood risks.
The storm also disrupted railway services in southern China’s Guangdong province and Hainan Island. While some passenger rail lines in Fujian and Jiangxi provinces resumed operations, the heavy rains and flooding caused by Gaemi continue to pose significant risks to transportation infrastructure.
Storm’s Impact Felt in Taiwan and Phillippines
Gaemi wreaked havoc in Taiwan and the Philippines. The storm intensified seasonal monsoon rains in the Philippines, causing widespread flooding in Manila. It also triggered landslides in Taiwan, resulting in multiple fatalities. The storm’s impact extended to maritime activities, with several cargo ships running aground and a significant oil spill in the Philippines.
Extreme Weather Tests Chinese Government’s Disaster Response Capabilities
Chinese President Xi Jinping chaired a meeting with top Communist Party leaders to discuss flood control and disaster relief plans. China activated its highest-tier disaster warning as the storm approached. The State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters has warned of a high risk of natural disasters due to the extreme weather conditions.
As Typhoon Gaemi’s remnants continue to affect China, forecasters have warned that the storm could still dump rain on already waterlogged cities. The summer has been marked by extremely changeable weather, with heavy downpours in the east and south and scorching heatwaves in the north. Authorities remain vigilant, closely monitoring the situation and preparing for potential further impacts as the storm’s remnants move through the region.
Photo Credits: NOAA