Mass evacuations in Beijing as Typhoon Dolphin brings more torrential rain to China

Beijing is experiencing mass evacuations as the remnants of Typhoon Dolphin unleash torrential rain across northern and central China. Authorities have moved thousands of people from flood and landslide-prone areas, with the capital bracing for potentially devastating rainfall.

Forecasters warned that Beijing could receive more than 150mm of rain in the next 24 hours, a significant amount that could exceed one-third of the city's average annual rainfall. The capital remains under an orange rainstorm warning, the second-highest alert level, with the heaviest downpours expected Wednesday morning. Hundreds of tourist attractions and campsites have been closed, and over 7,000 people, including elderly residents from care facilities and those living near construction sites, have been relocated.

The severe weather has disrupted daily life, causing the suspension of 250 bus routes and reduced speeds on 10 metro lines during the morning commute. Typhoon Dolphin, though weakened after making landfall on Sunday, continues to draw moisture inland, drenching central and northern regions. Neighboring Hebei province is also on alert for geological hazards, with authorities deploying teams and communication equipment to at-risk villages.

In Henan province, a red alert, the highest warning level, has been issued as downpours continue. Authorities have suspended classes, business operations, and outdoor activities, urging residents to avoid floodwaters. Scientists link China's increasing exposure to destructive weather events like this to climate change, exacerbated this year by the El Niño weather pattern.