Monster Typhoon Dolphin Hits China Hard: Over 1 Million Flee Deadly Winds

Typhoon Dolphin slammed into China’s eastern coast on August 9, 2026, making landfall near Yuhuan in Zhejiang province as the strongest tropical cyclone to strike the country this year. Packing severe winds and torrential rain, the storm triggered a national red alert—the highest warning level—and forced Zhejiang into a Level I emergency response. Video footage captured the chaos as high winds whipped through urban high-rises, heavy rain reduced visibility to near zero, and debris scattered across streets while vehicles struggled below. Authorities moved swiftly to protect lives in the face of the powerful system.

More than one million residents were evacuated across the affected region as officials ordered people out of high-risk zones. In Shanghai alone, more than 1,400 flights were canceled, while ports closed and transportation networks ground to a halt. Forecasters warned of extreme rainfall totaling 250 to 500 millimeters in parts of Zhejiang, raising serious concerns about flooding and landslides. The storm’s reach extended well beyond the immediate landfall area, with impacts expected to hit neighboring Fujian and Jiangsu provinces and linger through August 12.

Chinese meteorological authorities had tracked Dolphin’s unusual path and intensity for days, noting its long journey and sustained strength before it reached the mainland. Emergency teams focused on securing offshore workers, recalling vessels, and reinforcing vulnerable infrastructure ahead of the storm’s arrival. The combination of powerful winds and prolonged heavy rain has left coastal cities on high alert as recovery efforts begin and residual effects continue inland.

As the system weakens and moves northward, officials continue monitoring for secondary disasters such as flash floods and geological hazards. The scale of the evacuations and disruptions underscores the seriousness of this year’s most powerful typhoon to hit China. Residents and authorities remain vigilant while the full extent of the damage becomes clearer in the days ahead.