Post by : Meena Ariff

Heavy rains and strong winds battered southeastern China on Thursday as Tropical Storm Podul made landfall, causing flooding, school closures, and large-scale evacuations. The storm, which had already caused damage in Taiwan, is a stark reminder of how vulnerable coastal areas remain to extreme weather. In Taiwan, authorities reported that one person is missing, and thousands had to leave their homes to stay safe from the storm’s powerful winds and rain.

Impact in Southeastern China

Podul struck Fujian province in China shortly after midnight on Thursday. By the time it made landfall, the storm had weakened from typhoon strength to a tropical storm. Despite this downgrade, authorities took precautionary measures and evacuated around 15,000 people from coastal areas in southern China to safer locations.

Although there were no immediate reports of deaths or serious damage in China, the storm caused significant disruption. Flooding forced the closure of several streets in Macao, and schools in both Hong Kong and Macao were closed to protect students. In Hong Kong, the observatory issued warnings for residents to stay away from the shore as heavy rain and strong winds continued throughout the day. Court proceedings were also suspended in the city due to unsafe weather conditions.

Officials have been working tirelessly to monitor the storm and ensure public safety. The evacuation of coastal areas and closure of schools and roads were part of ongoing efforts to prevent injuries and loss of life. Residents were urged to stay indoors, avoid floodwaters, and follow official instructions.

Impact in Taiwan

Before reaching China, Tropical Storm Podul hit southern Taiwan as a typhoon on Wednesday, causing more severe damage. The storm first struck Taiwan’s east coast, then passed into the Taiwan Strait about five hours later. Officials reported that one person went missing after being swept into the sea, while around 100 people were injured due to falling debris, flooding, and strong winds.

More than 8,000 residents in Taiwan were evacuated to shelters for safety. Power outages occurred in several areas, and electric company workers worked quickly to restore electricity, which had been delayed due to previous storms. The storm highlighted ongoing challenges in disaster response, emphasizing the need for preparedness during extreme weather events.

Other Disasters in China

Podul’s effects were part of a wider pattern of heavy rain and natural disasters in China. In Yunnan province, located in southwestern China, heavy rainfall on Wednesday triggered a landslide, which resulted in one death and three people reported missing, according to official sources.

In Beijing, authorities recovered the body of a village leader who had gone missing during a flood more than two weeks ago. The flood in that region had already claimed at least 45 lives. The 51-year-old official had been on her way to evacuate two elderly residents when she tragically lost her life. Her husband had also died in the flood. Both were posthumously recognized as “Outstanding Communist Party Members of Beijing” for their dedication and courage in helping others during the disaster.

These incidents show that heavy rain and flooding continue to pose serious risks in multiple regions of China, not just the coastal areas affected by Tropical Storm Podul.

Response and Safety Measures

Authorities in both China and Taiwan have been taking active measures to ensure the safety of residents. Evacuations from high-risk areas, school and road closures, and restoration of electricity were prioritized to protect people from the storm’s immediate threats. Meteorological agencies in both countries are closely monitoring the storm’s path and issuing warnings to minimize further damage.

Residents in coastal regions have been advised to stay indoors, avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, and follow evacuation orders promptly. Community support and preparedness have become increasingly important during such extreme weather events. Local governments have also urged people to check on neighbors, especially the elderly and vulnerable, and to stock up on essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine.

Lessons and Preparedness

Tropical Storm Podul serves as a reminder of how important it is for governments and communities to be prepared for natural disasters. Early warnings, timely evacuations, and strong disaster management systems can save lives and reduce damage. In both China and Taiwan, the storm has highlighted the need for stronger infrastructure, better emergency services, and coordinated response efforts during extreme weather events.

Experts stress that low-lying coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to storms and floods, making preparedness essential. Building awareness among residents, providing clear safety instructions, and ensuring that emergency services are ready to act quickly are key steps in protecting communities from future disasters.

Tropical Storm Podul has caused widespread disruption in southeastern China and Taiwan. Heavy rainfall, flooding, injuries, and missing persons have been reported, especially in Taiwan, which continues to recover from the storm’s impact. In China, authorities have acted swiftly to evacuate people and reduce risks, while monitoring the storm’s progress closely.

The storm underscores the ongoing vulnerability of coastal and low-lying areas to natural disasters. It highlights the importance of disaster management, early warning systems, and community preparedness in protecting lives and minimizing damage. Residents are advised to remain cautious and follow official guidance as authorities continue their efforts to ensure safety.