Typhoon Dolphin, currently designated an orange-category typhoon (the second-highest level) in China, is expected to make landfall between late Sunday and early Monday local time, specifically between Zhoushan city in Zhejiang province and Fuding city in Fujian province. Its center is projected to have winds of 38-45 meters per second, with maximum sustained winds estimated at about 162 kilometers per hour (101 mph). The storm is anticipated to bring significant rainfall, with some areas potentially experiencing 200-400 mm (7.9-15.7 inches) over the next few days, leading to risks of severe flooding, landslides, and mountain torrents.
Authorities have taken extensive precautionary measures. China's National Marine Forecasting Center issued a red-level warning for coastal waters off Zhejiang, forecasting 5-to-8-meter waves. Zhejiang, a major manufacturing and export hub, raised its coastal typhoon alert to its highest level, halted port operations, suspended 162 passenger ferry routes, and ordered schools and water-related activities to cease. Shanghai's Yangshan port has been cleared of vessels, and rail services in the Yangtze River Delta are suspended. Beijing authorities are monitoring the typhoon's path and preparing flood-control and evacuation plans.
The typhoon has caused widespread travel disruptions, particularly in eastern China. Ningbo Lishe International Airport suspended all flights on Sunday, while Shanghai Pudong International Airport saw 317 delays and 78 cancellations on Saturday, with 123 arrivals also canceled. Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport canceled 72 flights on Saturday. Many flights to and from Shanghai on Sunday and Monday are also expected to be canceled. Taiwan canceled 78 flights, mostly international, due to the typhoon. Authorities have also designated Dolphin an emergency response level III.
China has ordered ships in the Taiwan Strait to adhere to its traffic control instructions, a measure Taipei has called "ridiculous," asserting Beijing has no right to restrict international waters. Both Taipei and Washington reject China's claim over the strategic strait. Rain and strong winds are expected to impact eastern China, including parts of Shanghai and neighboring provinces, through August 12.
