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by Duan Yihong
Typhoon Bilis and the subsequent depression as it weakened, from 14 to 18 July 2006, brought heavy-to-excessive rain, strong local winds and lightning to six Chinese provinces (Fujian, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Hunan, Guangdong and Guangxi). Some localities measured an accumulated rainfall amount of 300-500 mm. The rain triggered floods, landslides, rock- and mudflows, causing heavy loss of life and property. Bilis was unusual in terms of lifetime over land and impacts. Similarly, on 10 August 2006, supertyphoon Saomai made landfall on the coast of Cangnan County, Zhejiang Province, claiming many casualties and causing economic losses there and in parts of Fujian Province.
Why were the impacts of Bilis and Saomai so severe? Have there been other instances in history? What is the current skill in forecasting such typhoons? In order to answer these questions, some objective and scientific analyses should be made. 
http://www.wmo.ch/pages/mediacentre/bilis_en.html
