587 - 6/08 - Severe Floods Affecting Ports - China

Heavy rain and flood water in South China have affected water transport on the Pearl River. Members are advised to check with their local agents if calling to ports in the upper reaches of the Pearl River, and also to pay special attention to the origin and condition of any containers or cargo loaded in the region.

The worst affected areas are the Xi Jiang (West River) and the North River which connect to the Pearl River Delta. A combination of heavy rain and spring tides has led to the highest water levels in sixty years. There are unconfirmed reports of flooding in the dock areas of Shanshui, Wu Zhou, Zhao Qing, Gao Ming and Shun De. Ship movement has been restricted until the flood waters subside. 

Reports in the local press and reports locally indicate that containers and dry cargo may have been affected in these ports.

Congestion is likely whilst the ports return to normal operation. Several terminals have been under several metres of water and there are reports of wetted cargo being transhipped to the larger ports of Hong Kong, Shenzen and Huangpu. Containers should be visually inspected for water/tide marks. Any suspect containers should be recorded and/or inspected prior to loading if there are signs of wet damage.

Source of information:

Christopher Roberts

Thomas Miller (Asia-Pacific) Ltd

Hong Kong

Tel: +852 2832 4492

Email: christopher.roberts@thomasmiller.com