**Powerful Typhoon Dolphin Hits China, Prompting Flood and Landslide Warnings**
Typhoon Dolphin made landfall on China's eastern coast on the evening of August 10, 2026, unleashing strong winds, heavy rain, and large waves that have raised significant concerns for flooding and landslides in the region. The typhoon struck near Taizhou in Zhejiang province and northern parts of Fujian, with wind speeds reaching up to 151 km/h (93 mph) at the time of landfall.
In anticipation of the storm's impact, local authorities took proactive measures, evacuating approximately 390,000 residents from Taizhou and more than 30,000 individuals from vulnerable areas in Shanghai. The evacuations were part of a broader effort to safeguard lives as meteorological forecasts indicated that parts of Zhejiang could receive between 200 to 400 mm (7.9 to 15.7 inches) of rain in the coming days.
The typhoon's impact was felt immediately, with Shanghai's Hongqiao and Pudong airports cancelling around 60% of their scheduled flights, totaling over 1,300 cancellations. Ferries and cruise services in the Zhejiang province were also suspended as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety.
Prior to making landfall in China, Typhoon Dolphin had already affected northern Taiwan, including the capital city of Taipei, where heavy rain led to the cancellation of several flights bound for China. The storm also intensified seasonal monsoon rains in the Philippines, particularly across northern Luzon, resulting in flooding and landslides. Reports indicated that five individuals were rescued while seven others remained missing after a landslide struck three houses in Baguio.
As the storm continued to move inland, residents in Shanghai were seen using umbrellas to shield themselves from the relentless rain. The flooding resulted in significant disruptions, with many individuals forced to wade through waterlogged streets and seek refuge in makeshift shelters. In Yueqing, Zhejiang province, images captured the aftermath of the storm, showcasing residents working to restore their homes while others utilized buckets to remove water from flooded rooms.
Meteorological authorities had issued top-level alerts in response to the typhoon, underscoring the potential dangers posed by the severe weather conditions. The eastern coast of China had been preparing for Dolphin's arrival in the days leading up to the landfall, with work and transport services suspended in various areas along the predicted path of the storm.
As the situation continues to develop, local governments are closely monitoring the weather and assessing the damage caused by Typhoon Dolphin. Emergency services remain on high alert, ready to respond to any incidents of flooding or landslides as the storm's outer bands continue to affect the region.
The full extent of Typhoon Dolphin's impact on infrastructure and communities will likely take time to assess, but the immediate focus remains on ensuring the safety and wellbeing of those affected by the storm.