Typhoon Bebinca: Shanghai Faces Historic Storm Impact

Typhoon Bebinca Hits Shanghai: A Historic Storm

Typhoon Bebinca, the most powerful storm to strike Shanghai since 1949, made its landfall on Monday, paralyzing the bustling financial hub. The storm’s impact was felt immediately, as all flights departing from the city’s two major airports after 8 p.m. on Sunday were canceled. In addition to flight disruptions, popular attractions, including Disneyland, were closed for safety, and several high-speed train services were temporarily suspended.

The ferocity of the storm was evident, with winds reaching approximately 94 miles per hour near its center, resulting in fallen trees and uprooted billboards across the city. Social media platforms were flooded with videos showcasing the devastation, including buildings with siding torn away and electrical poles toppled over. According to Shanghai’s meteorological observatory, parts of the city experienced nearly 3 inches of rainfall within just one hour on Monday morning.

Shanghai is typically shielded from direct typhoon hits, as such storms usually impact regions further south. However, meteorologists have indicated that Bebinca is expected to weaken by this evening and shift westward. The timing of this storm is particularly concerning, coinciding with China’s three-day Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, a period when consumer spending is crucial for the economy, which is currently experiencing a slowdown. Many residents took to social media to express their frustrations about being stranded in hotels as a result of the storm’s effects.

Additionally, parades that were scheduled for a tourism festival on Sunday and Monday were canceled, further dampening the festive spirit. In nearby Suzhou, located in Jiangsu Province, local authorities suspended all food delivery services, while Nanjing halted all large-scale events and outdoor construction. Ships were also ordered to refrain from sailing on the Yangtze River to ensure safety.

The disruptions caused by Typhoon Bebinca are a reminder of the broader weather challenges facing China this year. Various regions have experienced alternating droughts and floods in quick succession, and the country marked its hottest July since records began in 1961. As Bebinca continues to linger over Shanghai, meteorological authorities have issued warnings about the potential formation of yet another typhoon, originating from the same region as Bebinca, which could impact Shanghai and its surrounding areas later this week.