Super Typhoon Grounds Hundreds of Russian Travelers in Shanghai

Hundreds of Russian tourists are stuck in China after Super Typhoon Bavi forced the cancellation of all flights out of Shanghai’s Pudong Airport. The storm, which is barreling toward the country’s eastern coast, has stranded travelers en route to popular beach destinations like the Philippines and Thailand.

One of those caught in the chaos is Anna, a Russian woman who had a long layover in Shanghai on July 11 while flying to Manila. She was exploring the city when her phone buzzed with a cancellation notice. Rushing back to Pudong, she found every departure grounded. Airlines have since put up affected passengers in hotels, and Anna’s flight is now rescheduled for Tuesday evening. But she faces a fresh headache: her travel insurance only covers one day in China, and she can’t extend the policy mid-trip.

The situation highlights how quickly a vacation can unravel when nature intervenes. For now, stranded travelers are advised to contact their airlines and embassies for support, as the typhoon’s path remains uncertain.