Typhoon hits Shanghai and Philippines flooding

Environment Posted on 09/08/2012

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In the early hours of the morning, Typhoon Haikui hit the Zhejiang Province bringing with it heavy rain and winds of over 90mph.

The storm has forced Shanghai's airports to ground many of its flights, both domestic and international. China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines and Air China all cancelled flights to Shanghai's two airports, with more cancellations expected. Those about to leave for, or return from, the financial capital are advised to check with the relevant airline before setting off for the airport.

Shanghai has avoided a direct hit by the storm but is still experiencing extremely heavy rain. All outside group activity has been suspended, whilst construction has been stopped and city parks closed. The rain is predicted to continue for the coming days, disrupting plans for many holidaymakers to the region.

More than 1.54 million people in Zhejiang and 252,000 in Shanghai were evacuated in preparation for the coming Typhoon. Haikui is the third storm to hit the region in a matter of days, with Typhoons Saola and Damrey both bringing torrential rains the weekend before.

China is not the only country to be affected, with the Philippines also experiencing torrential rains and flash floods. The Filipino capital, Manila, is currently almost completely underwater after more than a week of monsoon rains. According to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Manila's international airport is still operating as normal but travellers should leave extra time to get to and from the airport. There have been disruptions in power supply and communications, and tourists have been advised to follow instructions from local authorities and check weather updates regularly.

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In brief : Environment