Typhoon Saudel brings torrential rain and severe flooding to China’s Fujian province

Typhoon Saudel brought torrential rain and severe flooding to parts of China’s Fujian province on Wednesday (2 September), disrupting transport and daily activities in several areas and prompting authorities to step up emergency measures.

Fuding hit by severe flooding

Fuding, a county-level city in Ningde, was among the worst-hit areas as heavy rain battered the region.

Rainfall in one town in Fuding reached 417.8 millimetres on Tuesday (1 September), while floodwaters in some townships rose as high as the first storey of buildings.

The heavy rain flooded roads, uprooted trees and caused rivers to swell, severely disrupting local traffic.

Authorities in Fuding deployed emergency teams to clear roads and drain floodwaters. Rescue crews also carried out door-to-door checks in high-risk areas to speed up evacuations.

Emergency measures imposed

Fujian province raised its flood-control response to Level II on Wednesday as Typhoon Saudel and cold air brought torrential rain to areas under Ningde, including Fuding, Fu'an and Zherong County.

Work, production, classes and market activities were suspended in the affected areas as authorities responded to the severe weather.

The conditions also raised concerns over further flooding and other hazards as heavy rain continued to affect the region.

Saudel strengthens again

Saudel had previously made landfall along China's eastern coast in Zhejiang province on Friday (28 August), bringing heavy rain and widespread disruption before weakening.

After weakening, the storm later strengthened again as it moved back over warm waters, allowing it to regain typhoon strength before approaching Fujian.

The system subsequently brought heavy rainfall to Fujian and neighbouring areas, with authorities warning of possible flash floods and other weather-related hazards.

Rescue operations continue

Emergency crews in affected areas continued working to clear flooded roads, remove fallen trees and assist residents in high-risk locations.

The severe weather also affected other parts of China, with heavy rainfall linked to Saudel causing flooding and disrupting travel in parts of Zhejiang.

Authorities urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert as heavy rain and strong winds continued to pose risks of flooding and landslides.