Urbanization Intensifies Tropical Cyclone Rainfall in South China
Urbanization Intensifies Tropical Cyclone Rainfall in South China
US · Published Mar 3, 2026
New research shows that urbanization in South China is making rainfall from tropical cyclones more intense.
Since 1979, extreme rainfall during cyclones has increased significantly, especially in western Guangdong and eastern Guangxi.
The growth of cities like those in the Pearl River Delta is changing local climates and making rainfall patterns worse.
Urbanization intensifies tropical cyclone rainfall in South China
Recent research highlights the significant impact of urbanization on tropical cyclone rainfall in South China. Analyzing data from 366 historical tropical cyclones between 1979 and 2018, the study reveals that while cyclone frequency remained stable, regional precipitation intensity increased substantially. Mean terrestrial precipitation rose by 0.14 mm per event per year, with extreme precipitation escalating more sharply at 0.43 mm per 3 hours per year. This intensification plateaued after 2000 but remained elevated compared to earlier decades.
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