Over 1 million evacuated as Typhoon Dolphin strikes eastern China

On August 9, 2026, Typhoon Dolphin, the most powerful tropical cyclone of the year, made landfall on China's eastern coast, specifically near Yuhuan in Zhejiang province. The storm brought with it maximum wind speeds exceeding 150 kilometers per hour, resulting in significant disruptions across the region. Authorities had already evacuated over 1 million residents from their homes, with the city of Wenzhou relocating more than 900,000 people and opening over 1,000 emergency shelters. In Fujian province, nearly 99,000 individuals were evacuated from high-risk areas as the typhoon approached.

The impact of Typhoon Dolphin was felt even before it reached China, having previously swept through Japan's Okinawa prefecture, where it caused injuries to six people and left over 50,000 buildings without power. As the storm progressed, it triggered more than 1,000 flight cancellations, affecting transport services and stranding many travelers. In Shanghai, approximately 1,500 flights were canceled, and the city activated its emergency response protocols to ensure public safety.

Meteorological authorities forecasted torrential rain across several provinces, including Zhejiang, Shanghai, and Jiangsu, with predictions of rainfall amounts reaching between 250 to 500 millimeters. This heavy precipitation raised concerns about flooding and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas and along smaller rivers. The Water Resources Ministry warned of potential major flooding in key rivers, including the Qiantang and Yong rivers, and advised residents in high-risk areas to adhere to evacuation orders.

As the storm moved inland, it was expected to weaken gradually, but the risk of geological disasters remained high. The situation highlighted the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, which scientists attribute to climate change. The response from local authorities demonstrated a proactive approach to disaster management, with measures in place to protect residents and minimize damage from the storm's effects.