China’s strongest typhoon of 2026 has weakened after landfall, but its remnants are bringing intense rainfall, flooding and widespread transport disruption.
Reuters — WEB DESK: Torrential rain linked to Typhoon Dolphin has battered Beijing and other parts of China, triggering flooding, transport disruptions and heightened warnings as the storm’s remnants continue to move inland.
Typhoon Dolphin, described by Reuters as China’s strongest typhoon of 2026, weakened after making landfall in Zhejiang province, but continued to draw moisture into northern and central China.
Heavy rainfall turned roads in parts of Beijing into rivers, leaving vehicles stranded and disrupting daily life. Changping district recorded 90.7 millimetres of rain in just one hour, according to Reuters.
Beijing raises rainstorm alert
Authorities in the Chinese capital issued a high-level rainstorm warning as forecasts indicated further heavy rainfall.
The severe weather prompted the suspension of around 250 bus routes, while about 150 tourist attractions were closed. Subway services were also slowed on 10 lines as authorities moved to reduce risks to commuters.
Officials have warned that some parts of Beijing could receive more than 150mm of rain, with rainfall in certain districts potentially exceeding 200mm.
Flood risks spread across China
The impact of Dolphin’s remnants has extended beyond Beijing, with Henan and Hubei among the areas experiencing exceptionally heavy rainfall.
Several cities have recorded more than 200mm of rain in a single day, while authorities have raised flood-control measures and urged residents in vulnerable areas to take precautions.
In Henan, authorities issued a red rainstorm warning for areas where rainfall could reach 350mm, according to reports.
Officials have also been relocating residents from areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides, while transport and tourist services remain disrupted.
Typhoon weakens but rainfall threat continues
Although Dolphin has weakened significantly since making landfall, its remnants continue to feed moisture into inland areas, increasing the risk of flooding.
The latest conditions highlight the wider challenges posed by increasingly intense weather events in China. Reuters reported that authorities are using advanced weather models, including AI-based forecasting tools, to improve their ability to predict and prepare for extreme rainfall.
Authorities continue to monitor rivers, roads and other vulnerable infrastructure as further rain is expected across parts of northern and central China.
