Severe Weather Conditions Impacting Return Travel During May Day Holiday
As the May Day holiday comes to an end, many people across the country are facing challenges as they return home after the long break. Severe convection and heavy precipitation weather processes have been affecting various regions in southern China, raising concerns about the safety of travel during the return peak period.
Monitoring data shows that heavy rainfall has been particularly intense in provinces such as Guangdong, Guangxi, Jiangxi, Hunan, and Anhui. The Pearl River Delta region in Guangdong experienced extremely heavy rains, with some areas receiving maximum hourly rainfall of up to 141.9 millimeters.
Zhang Tao, chief forecaster of the Central Meteorological Observatory, explained that the heavy precipitation is the result of the movement of upper-altitude troughs and warm, humid air from the southwest. This weather system is mainly impacting South China and Jiangnan regions, causing significant convective storms with thunder and lightning.
While the heavy rainfall is expected to weaken in the coming days, regions such as Guizhou, Guangxi, and northeastern Guangdong are still expected to experience rainy and convective weather. Local authorities have been taking preemptive measures to ensure the safety of travelers during the peak return period.
Railway departments have been using ticketing data to monitor passenger flows and adjust train schedules accordingly. Additional trains have been added to popular routes to accommodate the high volume of travelers. Transportation departments in various provinces have also conducted thorough inspections of roads, railways, and waterways to address any potential risks or hazards.
In Shanghai, a customized special line has been organized for students and teachers returning to school after the holidays. The Shanghai Municipal Transportation Commission has provided detailed information on ticket sales and itinerary options through the “Suishen Bus” mini program platform.
As more than 2,100 flights are expected to take off and land at Beijing airports on the 5th, passengers have been advised to closely monitor weather conditions and flight updates. The Zhejiang Maritime Department has also implemented measures to ensure the safety of passengers traveling by ferry.
Meteorological experts are urging the public to stay informed about weather and traffic conditions, plan their travel routes carefully, and remain vigilant against potential geological disasters. While the heavy rainfall is gradually subsiding, it is important for travelers to avoid high-risk areas and prioritize safety during their return journeys.