Severe weather has battered Guangdong Province despite its earliest summer onset since 1961. As of Monday noon, 12 orange alerts for hail and 14 orange alerts for rainstorms were in effect across the province. The Guangdong meteorological observatory forecast significant convective hazards from Monday to Tuesday, including heavy rainfall, thunderstorm gales of Force 8 to 10, and hailstorms.
This severe weather swept from west to east across the province. Localized gusts of approximately Force 12 or tornadoes may occur in some areas. Heavy to torrential rain will hit Maoming, Yunfu, northern Guangdong, and cities in the Pearl River Delta. Moderate thundershowers are expected across the rest of the province.
Guangzhou officially entered summer on March 19, marking its earliest summer onset since 1961. The occurrence of hail in late March has surprised some local residents. Ma Jun, director of the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs, explained that hail requires ample moisture and intense updrafts. Since summer has just begun and the subtropical high has yet to fully establish, hail remains relatively prone to forming.
Guangzhou resident Wang Zihao from Jinan University said torrential rain has battered the city since Sunday. The downpour appeared so intense that it whipped up a misty spray. Having lived in Guangzhou for three years, this marks his first time witnessing such heavy rainfall in late March. Some teachers have switched to online teaching because commuting has become extremely difficult. Toppled trees on campus have also created safety hazards.
This severe weather has caused widespread transportation disruptions. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport suffered an 88 percent flight delay rate, making it the domestic airport with the highest number of flight cancellations at that time. Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport recorded a 41.46 percent arrival flight delay rate, with 12 flights diverted. High-speed rail services also faced disruptions when strong winds caused an object to become entangled in an overhead contact line, leading to a power outage and service suspensions.
The Guangdong meteorological observatory urged residents to take precautions as this severe weather continues. Authorities advised against outdoor activities during thunderstorm gales and hailstorms. Drivers should exercise caution on rain-slicked roads with reduced visibility.
Beyond Guangdong, the National Meteorological Center forecast heavy to torrential rainfall for parts of northern and eastern Guangxi, southern Hunan, southern and eastern Jiangxi, western Fujian, and southwestern Zhejiang. This severe weather pattern extends beyond Guangdong province.
The contrast between the earliest summer onset on record and the intense hailstorms highlights the complexity of this year’s weather patterns. While summer arrived early, atmospheric conditions remain conducive to severe convective events. Residents across the affected regions should stay informed about evolving weather warnings. Transportation hubs continue monitoring conditions as this severe weather system moves eastward.
