IntelScoops

SHANGHAI, July 30, 2025

Authorities in Shanghai have evacuated nearly 283,000 residents from vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas as Typhoon Co-May edges closer to China’s eastern seaboard. The storm, which made initial landfall in neighboring Zhejiang province early Wednesday, is forecast to bring torrential rain, gale-force winds, and potential flooding to the metropolitan region of over 25 million people.

The Shanghai Meteorological Bureau has issued an orange alert, the second-highest level in China’s four-tier weather warning system, warning of sustained downpours and wind gusts exceeding 80 km/h.

Transportation Disrupted

In anticipation of the storm, all ferry services in the city have been suspended, while hundreds of flights were grounded at both Pudong and Hongqiao international airports. Rail services have been slowed or suspended on multiple lines, and coastal highways have seen travel restrictions implemented to prevent accidents.

Authorities also issued advisories for residents to remain indoors and prepare emergency supplies. Drainage systems are being closely monitored as city workers attempt to prevent widespread flooding, particularly in flood-prone districts like Pudong and Minhang.

Tsunami Warning Adds to Concerns

Compounding the weather emergency, China’s Ministry of Natural Resources issued a tsunami alert following a powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. While the warning was later lifted, officials remained on high alert for possible wave surges along China’s eastern coast.

Rare Direct Hit for Shanghai

Though typhoons frequently affect China’s southern provinces, Shanghai rarely experiences direct hits. The last major storm to strike the city directly was Typhoon Bebinca in 2024, which caused extensive damage and power outages.

In total, more than 282,800 residents have been relocated across the broader Yangtze River Delta region as a precaution, with shelters and emergency medical stations activated by the municipal government.

Regional Preparedness

In nearby provinces including Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Fujian, local authorities have also suspended ferry operations, closed schools, and preemptively reinforced infrastructure as Co-May continues its path inland.

Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, urging citizens to stay informed through official weather bulletins and avoid non-essential travel over the coming 48 hours.