Level IV geological disaster response activated in Anhui as Typhoon Dolphin nears

The Ministry of Emergency Management on Saturday activated a Level IV emergency response for geological disasters in Anhui province due to risks posed by Typhoon Dolphin, the country's 13th typhoon of the year.

According to the ministry, Typhoon Dolphin is expected to bring heavy to torrential rains to parts of Anhui over the next three days, with some areas potentially experiencing extreme rainfall. Following consultations and assessments with the Ministry of Natural Resources, authorities determined that some areas in western Anhui face a high risk of geological disasters.

In accordance with the national emergency response plan for geological disasters and relevant regulations, the Ministry of Emergency Management activated the Level IV response on Saturday.

The ministry urged relevant regions to remain highly alert to risks arising from the combined impact of Typhoon Dolphin and the ongoing peak summer travel season. It called for enhanced disaster prevention and response efforts, urging local authorities to strengthen their responsibilities, improve coordination among departments, enhance information sharing, and closely monitor rainfall, flooding and geological disaster risks.

Authorities were instructed to implement dual-control measures covering both disaster-prone sites and risk areas, while strengthening inspections of key locations, including mountain valley entrances, steep slopes, construction sites, tourist attractions and popular online check-in spots.

The ministry also called for improved early warning and emergency response mechanisms and urged authorities to carry out timely and decisive evacuations to ensure that all those at risk are relocated as necessary.

Emergency rescue teams and disaster relief supplies will be deployed ahead of time, while professional forces will be sent to provide guidance and support at the grassroots level, the ministry said, emphasizing the need to safeguard people's lives and property.