When Rain Brings Pain: China's Gig Economy Workers Struggle to Keep Up
The torrential rains that have battered Shanghai in recent days have brought to the forefront a long-standing concern for the city's gig economy workers, who are often at the mercy of the elements. On social media, many workers took to expressing their frustration and exasperation, begging for a reprieve from the relentless downpour.
20 September 2024
"We can't take it anymore!" read one post on Weibo. "Our shoes are filled with water, and we're forced to trudge through flooded streets to deliver food and packages. Can't the rain just give us a break?"
For gig economy workers, who often rely on ride-hailing, food delivery, and package delivery apps to make a living, the rain poses a significant challenge. Soggy streets and flooded roads make it difficult to navigate, while waterlogged shoes and clothing can make for a miserable working experience.
"I've been working as a delivery driver for three years, and I've never seen anything like this," said Wang Tao, a 35-year-old delivery driver. "The roads are a mess, and my shoes are soaked through. I'm worried about getting sick, but I have no choice - I need to keep working to make ends meet."
The struggles faced by gig economy workers in the rain have sparked a national conversation about the need for better labor protections and benefits. Many argue that companies that rely on these workers should provide them with adequate support and compensation during extreme weather events.
"It's shameful that companies like [food delivery apps] aren't doing more to support their riders," said one Weibo user. "They're the ones who are really suffering in this rain. We need to do better by them."
In Hainan Province, residents of Qionghai City were seen navigating flooded streets to send their children to school amidst a severe rainstorm. A video shared on social media showed parents expertly maneuvering small boats through the waist-deep waters, dodging passing vehicles that sent waves crashing against the makeshift vessels. The parents' determination to ensure their children's education was not disrupted by the inclement weather has captured the hearts of many online. The scene was a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the city's residents, who refused to let the torrential rains bring daily life to a standstill.
Just as the rain shows no signs of letting up in Hainan, Guangdong is bracing for a period of intense rainfall over the next few days. According to forecasts, a moderate-strength cold front moving southward and interacting with the outer reaches of a tropical system will bring thunderstorms, which are expected to develop and strengthen. By the evening of September 20 and into September 21, the rain is expected to reach its peak intensity, with convective weather becoming more pronounced.
The Pearl River Delta, central Guangdong, and western Guangdong are expected to experience widespread heavy rain to torrential rain, with localized areas potentially seeing extremely heavy rain or even catastrophic rain. The maximum six-hour cumulative rainfall in some areas may exceed 120-150mm. The severe weather will also bring short-term heavy downpours, thunderstorms, strong winds, and isolated hail.
Residents are advised to take precautions and be prepared for the extreme weather conditions. To minimize risks, it's essential to follow some basic safety tips when traveling during heavy rain. These include checking the weather forecast before embarking on your journey, planning alternative routes to avoid areas prone to flooding or landslides, and leaving early to allow for extra time to reach your destination. It's also crucial to drive carefully, reducing speed, increasing following distance, and avoiding sudden maneuvers to avoid hydroplaning or losing control of your vehicle.
Additionally, it's recommended to avoid flooded areas, as the water may be deeper than it appears, and there may be hidden hazards. Keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle with essentials like a flashlight, first aid kit, and snacks is also a good idea in case you become stranded. If possible, consider using public transportation, which may be a safer and more reliable option during heavy rain. Motorists should exercise caution when passing pedestrians and cyclists, who may be more difficult to spot in low visibility conditions.
If authorities issue evacuation orders, follow them promptly to avoid being trapped in a flood-prone area. Finally, stay informed by keeping a radio or mobile device handy to receive updates on weather conditions and emergency alerts. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risks associated with traveling during heavy rain and ensure a safe journey.
