Typhoon Bebinca hits Shanghai, Strongest storm in 75 years
In light of the travel disruptions several popular tourist spots in Shanghai were temporarily shut down as a precaution.
On Monday morning Typhoon Bebinca struck Shanghai making it the strongest storm to hit the city in over 75 years. This powerful Category 1 typhoon made landfall with winds reaching up to 151 km/h (94 mph) disrupting China’s financial hub. State media reports indicate that the storm arrived at around 7:30 AM local time making it the most intense typhoon to impact Shanghai since Typhoon Gloria in 1949.
While typhoons are common in China direct hits of this severity, in Shanghai are uncommon. Typically typhoons make landfall further south along the coast. Just last week Typhoon Yagi, a Category 4 storm caused damage in the southern Hainan province. However, due to its population of nearly 25 million residents, Shanghai usually escapes such direct impacts.
The arrival of the storm brought the city to a halt causing disruptions, in transportation and public services. Flights were cancelled at Shanghai’s airports as airlines grounded them as early as Sunday night in preparation for the storm. Passengers found themselves stuck due to weather conditions leading to both domestic and international flights being suspended. Moreover Shanghai’s railway station suspended key rail services impacting travelers during one of the seasons busiest travel times.
The storms timing added to the inconvenience as China is currently observing the Mid Autumn Festival a significant holiday lasting three days. During this period people typically travel and visit family but Typhoon Bebinca has forced many to cancel or postpone their travel plans.
Typhoon Bebinca Triggers Citywide Safety Warnings and Travel Disruptions
In light of the travel disruptions several popular tourist spots in Shanghai were temporarily shut down as a precaution. Attractions like the Shanghai Disney Resort, Jinjiang Amusement Park and Shanghai Wild Animal Park halted operations for the day to prioritize the safety of both visitors and staff.
Additionally ferry services in the city, which are frequented by residents and tourists were suspended due to sea conditions caused by the storm. Warnings have been issued by Shanghai’s services and local authorities urging residents to stay indoors and avoid travel. Many roads are currently closed and efforts are underway to clear debris resulting from the typhoon winds and heavy rainfall. The local government is closely monitoring the situation and has deployed response teams to address the aftermath of the storm.
With the city starting to bounce back attention is being on getting services back up running and keeping residents safe. Despite the obstacles posed by the typhoon officials are working quickly to limit any further impact and assist Shanghai in getting back to its routine, as quickly as possible.
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