A series of flight cancellations at Guangzhou’s airport, one of China’s busiest, were caused by severe weather conditions that led to flooding inside the facility. Photos and videos shared by stranded passengers showed water pouring in from cracks in the roof. The forecast for the province predicted more rain, with a high risk of heavy downpours, hail, and tornadoes over the next five days.
Guangzhou authorities reported that the city had experienced record-breaking rainfall in April, with the total reaching 455.8mm, the highest since 1951. Retired teacher Zhu Yinghua mentioned that the rainwater had made its way inside buildings, causing damage to bedrooms. The ongoing Canton Fair, the country’s largest trade exhibition, was affected by the weather, with a decrease in the number of foreign buyers attending the event.
Deadly extreme weather events have become more common in various parts of China in recent years. Jiangxi province experienced intense winds and cloudbursts in March, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. In September, Jiangsu province was struck by two tornadoes that claimed the lives of 10 people. These incidents highlight the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather patterns in the region.
The weather disruptions in Guangzhou have had a significant impact on travel and business activities in the area. The flooding at the airport and the ongoing rain in the province have led to flight cancellations and delays, affecting both domestic and international travelers. The excessive rainfall has also caused damage to buildings, as reported by residents like Zhu Yinghua.
The Canton Fair, an important event for China’s export industry, has seen a decrease in attendance due to the weather conditions. The fair serves as a barometer for the country’s exports, with foreign buyers traditionally gathering to place orders and conduct business transactions. However, the recent weather disruptions have hindered the flow of visitors to the fair, impacting trade activities and potentially affecting the sector’s performance.
As extreme weather events become more frequent in China, the government and local authorities face challenges in managing the impact on infrastructure and public safety. The incidents in Guangzhou and other provinces highlight the need for proactive measures to address the risks posed by severe weather, including increased rainfall, tornadoes, and hailstorms. Efforts to enhance resilience and emergency response capabilities will be crucial in mitigating the effects of future weather-related disasters in the region.
