China Braces for Typhoon Dolphin: Over 1,600 Flights Grounded, Coastal Evacuations Underway

As Typhoon Dolphin barrels toward China's eastern seaboa…

As Typhoon Dolphin barrels toward China's eastern seaboard, authorities have grounded more than 1,600 flights and ordered mass evacuations from vulnerable coastal zones. The storm, which intensified overnight, is packing winds of up to 162 kilometers per hour, according to meteorological data.

The country's aviation regulator confirmed widespread disruptions at major airports in the region, including those in Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Ningbo. Travelers faced long queues and uncertainty as airlines scrambled to rebook passengers, while many domestic routes were suspended ahead of the typhoon's expected landfall later this week.

Local governments in Fujian and Zhejiang provinces have activated emergency response protocols, moving residents from low-lying areas and fishing villages to temporary shelters. Fishing fleets have been recalled to port, and schools across several cities have been closed as a precautionary measure.

The typhoon, which has already brought heavy rain

The typhoon, which has already brought heavy rain and gusty winds to offshore islands, is projected to weaken slightly before hitting the mainland, but forecasters warn that storm surges and flooding could still pose a significant threat. Emergency crews are on standby with pumps, sandbags, and rescue boats, while officials urge residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

This comes as China's disaster management agencies remain on high alert, recalling lessons from previous typhoon seasons that caused billions in economic losses. The government has pledged to prioritize public safety, with state media broadcasting continuous updates on the storm's path and intensity.