Shenzhen's weather authority has upgraded the orange rainstorm warning to red at 11 a.m. as the city has experienced persistent heavy rain over the past three hours, with more expected in the next two-three hours.
Residents are advised to stay vigilant against adverse weather conditions, and avoid staying in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
The heavy rain during the morning rush hours today exacerbated the already congested roadways, costing commuters much longer time to work.
A netizen who lives in Longhua District, just north of Futian, complained on a social media platform that it took her 90 minutes to drive to her office in downtown Futian this morning, which is usually a 30-minute commute under normal weather condition.
Residents are advised to remain cautious and prepared for frequent thunderstorms and persistent heavy rain that local weather forecasts said are likely throughout this week, particularly on Friday and Saturday.
Shangbao East Road is flooded during the heavy rain during morning rush hours today. Lin Jianping
The city’s flood prevention and disaster relief office has implemented a 24-hour on-duty mechanism, and related departments have tightened patrols and prepared for emergencies that could be triggered by heavy rain.
Shenzhen has entered an annual severe convective weather period characterized by sudden and rapid weather changes, according to the weather forecast. Thunderstorms often materialize suddenly. After a rainstorm, there may be safety hazards such as fallen billboards and tree branches. It is crucial to maintain safety awareness and avoid areas with hidden safety hazards.
Shenzhen recorded an average rainfall of 41.2 millimeters Sunday. Heaviest rainfall occurred in Bao’an, Guangming, Nanshan, and Luohu districts.
The city’s meteorological observatory issued a citywide orange alert for heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong wind at 11 a.m. Sunday.
