Observation of an extreme wind disaster associated with the "5.4" cruise ship capsizing event in Qianxi, Guizhou Province

A passenger ship capsized near Huawu Wharf in Huawu Village Qianxi City Guizhou Province on the afternoon of May 4 2025 from 16:30 to 16:40 local time. This study is to reveal the characteristics and possible causes of extreme wind disasters during the accident, using regional station minute data, video surveillance data, Guiyang Doppler radar observations, and other related materials. The results show that: from the afternoon of May 4 to the early evening, Guizhou experienced severe convective weather, with an extreme wind speed of 44.7 m•s⁻¹ (16:32—16:33) recorded in Huawu Village, Xinren Township, Qianxi City. There were two rounds of strong winds in Huawu Village from 16:28 to 16:45, with extreme winds occurring in the first round. Video surveillance captured the downburst process of a strong storm in Huawu Village, including phenomena such as storm surges, winds and rain, increased winds and waves on the river surface, and sudden drops in visibility. The radar echo confirmed a supercell with hook shaped echoes, and the supercell caused a downburst outbreak and enhancement in Huawu Village during 16:29—16:34, leading to extreme winds. Additionally, it is speculated that the typical river valley terrain in the area further accelerated the strong winds. This article reveals the characteristics of the strong storms and associated downbursts and extreme winds based on multiple observational data, providing scientific support for better short-term warning. The study also indicates that, we need pay attention to forecasts of extreme winds, hail and precipitation in environments with abnormally high temperatures from spring to early summer.