Typhoon Dolphin Tests Shanghai's Emergency Systems and Supply Lines

Typhoon Dolphin, one of the strongest storms to hit China this year, has put Shanghai's emergency systems to the test. The super typhoon was downgraded to a severe tropical storm after making landfall in Zhejiang, but not before lashing the megacity of 25 million with gale-force winds and record-breaking rainfall on August 9-10.

Downtown Shanghai saw its rainstorm warning escalated to a red alert for the first time in 13 years. The intense downpour led to waterlogging in several areas, with frontline workers deploying mobile pumping trucks and additional pumps to clear the water. In one instance, a maintenance crew dispatched 15 to 20 workers to stay on site around the clock. Police used aerial drones to manage traffic restrictions on the Middle Ring Road's exit ramp, with about 16 officers rotating shifts.

The storm's impact was felt acutely in the city's transport network. Four metro lines were completely suspended, and four more ran on shortened routes. The morning rush hour at Lujiazui Metro station, the heart of the financial district, was noticeably thinner. One resident noted the subway was 60 to 70 percent less crowded than usual. Nearly 80% of flights in and out of Shanghai's two airports were canceled, with a gradual resumption beginning Monday afternoon. Airlines arranged dedicated staff to assist passengers with rerouting.

Beyond transport, the city focused on maintaining food supplies. At Jiangqiao Wholesale Market, the city's largest vegetable distribution hub, vendors reported running 24-hour double shifts to pack and ship produce. One vendor stated that supply was plentiful and prices remained steady, with no price hike due to the typhoon. Another said they had expanded storage capacity and were sending out trucks earlier to ensure produce reached the market safely. The market is handling about 6,500 tons of vegetables per day, with the average wholesale price for mixed vegetables holding below 4 yuan per kilogram, down about 3 percent from last week.

Residents appeared confident in the supply chain. One said there was no need to stock up, as supplies wouldn't be cut off. Another said they might buy enough for a day or two at most, but not hoard large amounts. Delivery services were still running but with reduced capacity due to the weather; one deliveryman reported the platform shut down for three hours, causing him to miss about 10 orders.

The city also took precautionary measures, evacuating 215,600 people from high-risk areas as of Sunday evening, including more than 10,000 residents and workers in the Lingang Special Area. Truck drivers found refuge at a rest stop there, where hot water and showers were available. One driver noted it was safer to stay put than to brave the strong winds.

Meteorologists have noted above-average tropical cyclone activity in July and warned of an active season ahead. Typhoon Dolphin is the 13th named storm of the year.