Tropical Storm Bavi Causes Severe Disruption in Eastern China

Tropical Storm Bavi, having weakened from typhoon status, made landfall in eastern China over the weekend, affecting millions with heavy rainfall and strong winds. The storm reached the coastal city of Yuhuan in Zhejiang province shortly before midnight on Saturday and subsequently hit the densely populated city of Yueqing. Authorities had already evacuated nearly two million residents prior to the storm's arrival.

Residents described the impact as severe, with one Yueqing local, Li Liangxing, reporting, 'We could hear roof tiles and tree branches falling.' In addition to damaging structures, the storm caused significant flooding, with water levels reported to reach approximately half the height of a car tyre.

State broadcaster CCTV reported that more than 1,300 trees were uprooted in Yueqing due to the strong winds, which the National Meteorological Center recorded at speeds of 101 kilometres per hour, equating to 63 miles per hour. Emergency teams have been deployed to clear streets overwhelmed by floodwaters and debris, utilising chainsaws and excavators to restore access.

As a result of the storm, transportation systems across eastern China have faced significant disruption. Two major railway stations in Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, suspended all services, and 327 flights were cancelled at Xiaoshan International Airport. Nearby Shanghai reported even broader cancellations, with 684 flights and over 1,600 trains grounded.

By Sunday afternoon, the storm had moved into Anhui province, with forecasts indicating it would continue northeast towards the Yellow Sea by Tuesday. Meteorological experts have warned that heavy rain and strong winds are likely to persist in the impacted regions for several days, raising concerns about additional flooding and damage.

The situation remains dynamic, with ongoing assessments of the storm's impact and further safety measures being implemented as needed.