Double Whammy in China: Shanghai Braces for Typhoon Co-May and Tsunami Warning in Coastal Areas
Shanghai is facing a critical double threat as Typhoon Co-May approaches China's eastern coast with torrential rains and powerful winds, just hours after a tsunami warning was issued following a massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula.
Authorities have evacuated nearly 283,000 residents from vulnerable and high-risk zones in and around Shanghai, aiming to safeguard the population against flooding, high winds, and potential storm surges. The typhoon is expected to bring up to 320 millimeters of rain within 24 hours, which raises concerns over flash floods and landslides.
In response, Shanghai’s emergency services activated a level-one emergency response, the highest level for flood and typhoon prevention. Transportation has been severely disrupted — ferry services suspended, highway speed limits reduced, and nearly 30% of flights canceled at Pudong and Hongqiao airports. Critical infrastructure such as the Yangshan Port, world’s largest container terminal, has suspended operations to minimize risk.
The tsunami warning, triggered by the Kamchatka earthquake, predicted waves up to 1 meter high impacting coastal areas including Shanghai and Zhoushan. While the tsunami alert was later lifted, concerns persisted over compounded impacts from the typhoon’s strong winds coinciding with possible sea surges.
Key Details on Typhoon Co-May and Tsunami Alert in Shanghai
Typhoon Co-May Landfall: Made landfall early July 30 near Zhoushan, Zhejiang with maximum sustained winds of 83 km/h, expected to reach closer to Shanghai later that day
Evacuations: 282,800+ people relocated from flood-prone and coastal zones
Rainfall: Up to 320mm expected within 24 hours leading to heightened flood risks
Transport Disruptions: Suspension of ferry services, flight cancellations (~640 flights affected), reduced speed limits on roads and railways
Tsunami Warning: Issued following 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Kamchatka Peninsula, warning for waves up to 1 meter along China’s coast, later lifted
Safety Measures: Emergency protocols activated, construction halted, oil hubs and critical ports operating emergency safety modes
Impact on Daily Life and Infrastructure
Shanghai’s residents face significant disruption including halted construction, suspended public transportation in parts, flight disruptions, and restricted road mobility. Critical industrial and shipping hubs operate in emergency mode, prioritizing safety amid worsening weather conditions.
The compounded threat presents a serious challenge, combining the risks of a powerful tropical cyclone with the potential dangers of a tsunami-triggered storm surge, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and swift governmental response.
FAQs on Shanghai Typhoon and Tsunami Warning
What is Typhoon Co-May and how strong is it?
Typhoon Co-May is a tropical cyclone approaching eastern China with maximum sustained winds of about 83 km/h, expected to bring heavy rain and flooding.
How many people have been evacuated in Shanghai?
Approximately 283,000 residents from high-risk and coastal areas have been evacuated to safer locations.
Why was a tsunami warning issued in Shanghai?
A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula triggered tsunami alerts for parts of China’s eastern coastline, including Shanghai.
Are ferry and air travel services affected in Shanghai?
Yes, all ferry services in Shanghai have been suspended, and nearly 30% of flights in and out of Shanghai’s main airports have been canceled.
What safety measures have officials implemented?
Authorities have activated the highest level of emergency response, enforced speed limits on roads, halted construction, and advised residents to follow evacuation orders.
Is the tsunami warning still active?
The tsunami warning for Shanghai was lifted by early afternoon on July 30, but typhoon threats remain significant.
Published on: July 30, 2025
Published by: PAVAN
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