China evacuates one million people as Typhoon Dolphin hits eastern region

Typhoon Dolphin struck eastern China on Sunday evening, making landfall near Shanghai as the system intensified to a Category 2 equivalent storm with sustained winds of about 150 km/h (93 mph) and gusts reaching 190 km/h (118 mph). The China Meteorological Administration issued red alerts for Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces, warning of heavy rainfall, storm surges and widespread wind damage. By early Monday, the storm had produced localized flooding, downed power lines and disrupted transportation, prompting the temporary suspension of flights at Shanghai Pudong International Airport and the cancellation of dozens of high‑speed rail services. Emergency crews were dispatched to reinforce levees, clear debris and assist residents in affected neighborhoods, while schools and government offices in the most vulnerable districts remained closed.

Authorities continue to monitor Dolphin’s inland progression as it weakens, with the focus now on mitigating flood risks and restoring utilities. The National Flood Control and Drought Relief headquarters has coordinated with local governments to assess damage and allocate relief resources, emphasizing that recovery efforts will proceed in tandem with ongoing weather updates. No fatalities have been reported so far, and officials have urged the public to remain vigilant as the remnants of the typhoon move further westward across the region.