Tropical Storm Bavi made landfall in eastern China on July 12, 2026, bringing heavy rain and strong winds after authorities evacuated nearly two million residents. The storm, which weakened from a typhoon, impacted the coastal city of Yuhuan in Zhejiang province just before midnight, followed by another landfall in the densely populated city of Yueqing in Wenzhou district.
Impact of Tropical Storm Bavi on Eastern China
The storm is noted as the strongest to hit China this year, with winds recorded at 101 kilometers per hour (63 miles per hour) early Sunday. According to state broadcaster CCTV, Bavi caused significant destruction, including the uprooting of over 1,300 trees in Yueqing, with many falling onto roads and properties.
“We could hear roof tiles and tree branches falling,” reported Yueqing resident Li Liangxing, highlighting the storm's ferocity as floodwaters rose to about half the height of a car tire.
Emergency Response and Preparations
Emergency teams have been deployed to clear streets and assist affected residents. Chainsaws and excavators are being used to remove debris and restore access. The storm has severely disrupted transportation, with major railway stations in Hangzhou suspending services and hundreds of flights canceled.
- 327 flights canceled at Xiaoshan International Airport
- 684 flights canceled in Shanghai
- More than 1,600 trains canceled across the region
Forecast and Future Path of Bavi
As of Sunday afternoon, Tropical Storm Bavi had crossed into Anhui province and is expected to continue its northeast trajectory toward the Yellow Sea by Tuesday, according to the National Meteorological Center. Forecasters warn that the storm will continue to unleash heavy rainfall across eastern and northern China in the coming days.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Al Jazeera. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
