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The Rising Flood Risk in China: A Cautionary Tale for Businesses šŸ‡ØšŸ‡³šŸŒŠ

Apr 03, 2023

Alex BjĆørlig

ab@21risk.com

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China has experienced an increasing number of severe flooding events in recent years, posing significant challenges for businesses operating in flood-prone areas. One such example is the devastating flooding that occurred in Zhengzhou, Henan Province in July 2021. Within just three days, the city received a year's worth of rainfall, causing widespread destruction and impacting numerous companies, including the Foxconn factory, a key supplier for Apple.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of understanding and managing flood risk for businesses with operations in China. Here are three crucial steps you can take to protect your company:

Assess Flood Vulnerability: Thoroughly evaluate your facilities' exposure to flood risk, including their proximity to rivers, lakes, or other potential sources of flooding. Make use of flood maps and historical data to identify areas with the highest potential for flooding.

Implement Flood Protection Measures: Invest in physical barriers, such as flood walls, levees, or raised foundations, to protect your facilities from rising water. Additionally, consider installing flood-resistant doors, windows, and seals to minimize water intrusion during a flood event.

Develop a Flood Emergency Plan: Create a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines the steps your company will take in the event of a flood. This should include evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and strategies for protecting critical equipment, inventory, and data.

By taking these proactive measures, you can minimize the impact of flooding on your business operations and ensure a more resilient future. Don't let your business become another cautionary tale; invest in flood risk management today.Ā