Current Impact and Forecast for Tropical Storm Podul
Torrential rains from Tropical Storm Podul deluge southern China
Current Impact:
- Southern China: Tropical Storm Podul made landfall in Fujian province, causing heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding. The storm resulted in the evacuation of over 15,000 people from seaside areas, but no initial reports of casualties or damage have been documented [2][3].
- Hong Kong: The storm prompted a "black" rainstorm warning, leading to the closure of schools, suspension of court proceedings, and disruptions at hospitals. The warning was later downgraded to an "amber" level as the storm weakened. Notably, the national security trial of media tycoon Jimmy Lai was postponed due to the severe weather conditions [1][4].
- Taiwan: Before hitting China, Podul affected Taiwan, causing injuries to over 140 people and leaving one person missing [3][5].
Forecast and Future Impacts:
- Weather Projection: As of now, Tropical Storm Podul is projected to weaken further as it moves inland. However, the region is still vulnerable to flooding and other weather-related hazards due to saturated ground conditions from recent rains [5].
- Economic Concerns: The frequent extreme weather events are expected to pose continuous threats to China's economic growth, particularly in regions like Quanzhou, which is a key textile and export hub [1].
- Government Response: The Chinese government has allocated significant funds for disaster relief efforts, highlighting the increasing need for preparedness and resilience in the face of frequent and intense weather events [1].
- Hong Kong: Outpatient clinics across Hong Kong were closed until the "black" rainstorm warning is lifted. Flights were also disrupted due to the storm [6]. A queue formed outside the court in Hong Kong for the public gallery during the weather warning [7].
- Guangzhou Airport: Guangzhou airport had the most delays and cancellations in the world due to the storm, according to FlightAware [8].
- Hong Kong Wetland Park: The Hong Kong Wetland Park is closed due to Podul [9].
- Accident and Emergency Services: Despite the weather warning, accident and emergency services remained open in Hong Kong [10].
- Podul's Residual Vortex: The residual vortex of Podul stands to wreak havoc in southern China [11].
[1] South China Morning Post (2020). China braces for more heavy rain as Tropical Storm Podul weakens
[2] Reuters (2020). China's Fujian province hit by heavy rain as Tropical Storm Podul weakens
[3] The Straits Times (2020). At least 143 injured as Tropical Storm Podul sweeps through Taiwan
[4] South China Morning Post (2020). Jimmy Lai's national security trial adjourned due to Hong Kong's 'black' rainstorm warning
[5] The Weather Channel (2020). Tropical Storm Podul weakens over China, but heavy rain continues
[6] South China Morning Post (2020). Hong Kong cancels all flights due to heavy rain from Tropical Storm Podul
[7] South China Morning Post (2020). Long lines outside Hong Kong court as Jimmy Lai trial resumes amid 'black' rainstorm warning
[8] FlightAware (2020). Guangzhou airport has the most delays and cancellations in the world due to the storm
[9] South China Morning Post (2020). Hong Kong Wetland Park closed due to Tropical Storm Podul
[10] South China Morning Post (2020). Hong Kong's accident and emergency services remain open during the 'black' rainstorm warning
[11] South China Morning Post (2020). Tropical Storm Podul's residual vortex stands to wreak havoc in southern China
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