The Xin'an River Reservoir was opening seven spillway tunnels for flood control Photo: Xia Yang
Highlights
By Fang Jingyi
Since the beginning of this year’s plum rain season on June 9, Hangzhou has experienced three rounds of heavy rainfall, with total precipitation nearly double that of 2023. Particularly in late June, the accumulated rainfall from heavy and torrential rains has increased the flood discharge pressure on rivers and lakes in Hangzhou, including the Qiandao Lake, the Qiantang River, the Xin'an River, the Fuchun River, and the Tiaoxi River. Efforts were consistently made across Hangzhou to withstand the extreme weather.
On June 23, the water level of West Lake exceeded 7.3 meters, and all nine drainage gates were opened immediately. Lower areas like Jixian Pavilion were temporarily closed and became a resting place for the wild ducks. The water level at the Qiantang River's Lanxi station also reached the warning level of 28 meters on June 25, resulting in the first flood of the year.
Meanwhile, the Xin'an River Reservoir in Jiande city has experienced its eighth year of flood discharge since its construction, and this is the third time in history that it has reached the level of discharging water through seven spillway tunnels.
During the plum rain, numerous workers, volunteers, and citizens have been working together to ensure the safety of their hometown. Take Lin’an district as an example, it recorded a maximum precipitation of 362 millimeters, and natural disaster warnings were frequently issued. Government staff set up warning devices along dangerous sections of the Tiaoxi River, and many volunteers came to the riverbank to advise residents to stay away from the river. The heavy rain also significantly impacted the lives of residents in mountainous areas, causing landslide hazards in places like Langkou village. Staff from the village committees conducted regular inspections and promptly evacuated villagers from dangerous houses. One household’s back wall collapsed within 24 hours after they were notified to evacuate. Fortunately, the timely evacuation prevented any casualties.