Typhoon Kong-ree is here for the whole day.

Shanghai's flashing a yellow rain alert and a blue typhoon alert, so unless you fancy a surprise shower, keep that umbrella handy! We received a few questions, about how inclement weather might impact conditions at, to, and from work, so we've put together a small FAQ about your rights during times like these.

But first...

Some Quick Storm Updates:

Kong-ree first made a scene on Taiwan's Taitung coast yesterday but lost some steam, downgrading to a tropical storm as it slipped into the Taiwan Strait by evening.

As of 11am today, the storm's eye is hanging out about 115km southwest of Wenling, Zhejiang Province. It's gearing up for a second landfall near Wenling this afternoon before it heads off to the northern East China Sea and morphs into an extratropical cyclone – fancy term for "still wet but less wild."

Good news, though: things mellow out over the weekend. Expect mostly cloudy skies with temperatures between 16°C and 23°C. Mornings and evenings will be cool, but the daytime's looking comfortably pleasant.

But don't get too cozy – a fresh cold front is sliding in next week, knocking temperatures down further. We're talking lows around 12°C in the city center and even chillier in the 'burbs. Time to dig out those jackets!

Know Your Rights on Stormy Days

Q: I slipped and got hurt on my way to work. Does this count as a work injury?

A: Hate to break it to you, but under Shanghai's work injury regulations, a slip on the way to work usually doesn't qualify as a work-related injury – unless you were in a traffic accident that wasn't your fault. However, if you take a tumble at the office or anywhere on company property, that's a different story and could be considered a work injury.

Q: I can't make it to work because of the typhoon. Will my employer dock my pay or penalize me?

A: Relax. If Shanghai issues a red alert for typhoons, employers aren't allowed to penalize you for being late or not showing up. That means no pay cuts, no forced vacation days, and no petty penalties. It's the law.

Q: My boss is insisting I come to work despite the dangerous weather. Can they do that?

A: Nope, that's a big no-no. China's labor laws are crystal clear: employers must not force you to work in extreme conditions that put your safety at risk. You've got the right to say "nope," and any pushback is straight-up illegal.

Q: What are considered "extreme weather conditions"?

A: Extreme weather conditions come in many forms (not just typhoons).

• High Temperatures: When the daily maximum temperature reaches 40°C (104°F) or above, outdoor work is typically suspended to protect workers from heat-related illnesses.
  
• Severe Cold: Extremely low temperatures that can lead to frostbite or hypothermia, especially in regions prone to harsh winters.
  
• Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: Intense rainfall leading to flooding, landslides, or other hazards that compromise safety. (Red Rain Alerts or Level 1 Flooding Alerts).
  
• Typhoons and Strong Winds: Tropical cyclones and high winds can cause structural damage and endanger lives. (Red Typhoon Alerts)
  
• Sandstorms: Particularly in northern and western regions, sandstorms can reduce visibility and cause respiratory issues. Not an issue for Shanghai, but just in case, Red Alert sandstorms.
  

Q: Do these labor rights apply to foreign workers in China?

A: Absolutely. Labor rights laws cover everyone working in China, no matter where your passport is from. All employment disputes fall under Chinese labor law, so make sure you're in the know.