Typhoon Doksuri has caused historic levels of rainfall in northern China, shattering a 140-year rainfall record in Beijing. This extreme weather has resulted in dangerously swollen rivers and waterlogged cities throughout the region.
As a result of the storm, there is an urgent need to safely release overflowing water from reservoirs and rescue tens of thousands of trapped residents. In Hebei province, over 1.2 million people have already been evacuated to ensure their safety. However, the amount of rainfall has exceeded the reservoirs’ storage capacity by more than double.
The Hai river basin, which includes Hebei and Beijing, is currently facing its worst flooding since 1996. It is estimated that it will take up to a month for the floodwaters to recede in Hebei, with the city of Zhuozhou being the hardest hit.
Experts attribute the severity of the flooding to the combination of rapid urbanization and extreme weather events caused by global warming. China’s urban waterlogging risks have increased significantly due to the ongoing urbanization process. Additionally, the effects of global warming contribute to the unpredictability and intensity of storms and rainfall patterns.
The situation is expected to worsen, as northeastern provinces are predicted to experience 50% higher than normal rainfall in August. This poses further challenges for rescue efforts and could potentially exacerbate the flooding in the region.
Rescuers have been facing difficulties due to overwhelmed access routes and a lack of coordination. Although many rescuers from various parts of China have offered their assistance, not all have received the necessary approval to provide aid on the ground.
The implications of this record-breaking rainfall and subsequent flooding are profound. The Chinese government and local authorities are working tirelessly to manage the situation and provide support to affected residents. As the country continues to develop, it is crucial to prioritize sustainable urban planning and disaster management strategies in order to mitigate the risks posed by extreme weather events in the future.
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