China's Guangdong Province evacuates about 670,000 residents due to typhoon

Typhoon Wipha made landfall on the coast of Taishan County in Guangdong Province, with wind gusts exceeding 118 km/h. The typhoon later passed over land again near Hailing Island in the city of Yangjiang, developing into a severe tropical storm, reports China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS.

According to provincial authorities, around 670,000 people have been evacuated from affected areas in Guangdong, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Zhuhai. The typhoon disrupted transport: flights were cancelled at airports in Shenzhen and Zhuhai, and bridges in Jiangmen and Shenzhen-Zhongshan were temporarily closed. High-speed and intercity rail services between major cities in the region were also suspended, and ferry operations across the Qiongzhou Strait were halted.

Flooding has been reported in the city of Haikou. In response to worsening weather conditions, authorities have urged increased safety measures.

In the eastern province of Fujian, a Level IV flood emergency response system has been activated, as authorities begin preparations for possible worsening conditions. Heavy rainfall is forecast over the next three days, and monitoring is being intensified.

China’s National Flood and Drought Control Headquarters has raised the emergency response level to III (indicating a real threat to human life, health, and infrastructure) in Guangdong and Hainan provinces. Humanitarian aid supplies have been sent to assist affected populations.

Meanwhile, the typhoon is approaching northern Vietnam. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has issued an order to enhance response measures. Authorities in northern and north-central provinces have suspended maritime transport, are evacuating coastal residents, preparing shelters, and stockpiling food and fuel.

According to Vietnam’s National Centre for Hydrometeorological Forecasting, the typhoon is expected to intensify by 22 July.

Authorities in Laos have also warned of the risk of floods and landslides. Typhoon Wipha may bring heavy rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms to the north and central parts of the country. Residents have been advised to follow forecasts and be ready to evacuate if necessary.

Photo: China Daily