THE Guangdong Provincial Emergency Management Department and the Provincial Meteorological Bureau have issued a weather alert for residents in northern Guangdong and the Pearl River Delta region, including Shenzhen.

The forecast predicts heavy-to-torrential rain across these areas in the following days, and certain locations will experience exceptionally heavy downpours.

The region is also on alert for severe weather phenomena including short-term intense rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail.

From today to Saturday, the forecast for Shenzhen anticipates mostly cloudy skies punctuated by sporadic rain or thunderstorms. The temperature is expected to climb around noon. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepare for the possibility of sudden and extreme weather including thunderstorms, significant rainfall, and abrupt gusts of wind.

News reports have confirmed hail in Guangzhou’s Panyu and Foshan’s Shunde on Saturday, alongside lightning strikes in the northern areas of Shenzhen’s Bao’an and Guangming districts. These incidents mark the commencement of this year’s severe weather season for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

This period is  known for its sudden and intense weather phenomena — such as thunderstorms, hail, and heavy  localized rainfall — which are difficult to forecast due to their abrupt onset, brief duration, and restricted impact area. Despite these challenges, they carry substantial destructive potential.

Safety tips:

During heavy rain: Ensure driving safety and avoid waterlogged roads. If your vehicle stalls in a flooded area, evacuate it immediately and seek safety. Be cautious of hidden dangers and electrocution risks when outdoors.

During lightning: Secure your home by closing doors and windows. Turn off the power supply. Stay indoors and avoid high places and conductive materials. Follow safety advice to protect yourself against lightning hazards.

The Ministry of Emergency Management advises the public to stay informed through reliable sources and take all necessary precautions to ensure safety during adverse weather conditions. (Windy Shao)