Guangzhou, China – Typhoon Tapah has made landfall in southern China, bringing strong winds, torrential rainfall, and widespread damage that prompted authorities to initiate mass evacuations and suspend daily activities in affected regions. As it made landfall early this morning in Guangdong and Hainan provinces respectively, disruptions were felt immediately with authorities bracing themselves for additional impacts throughout the day.
China National Meteorological Center (CNMC) issued the highest level of warning as Tapah, classified as a Category 3 typhoon, continued its path toward China’s coastline. Wind speeds reached 120 kilometers per hour (75 mph), and heavy rainfall is expected to continue for hours after making landfall causing extensive flooding, power outages, and damage to infrastructure.
Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, saw streets flooded with water as residents scrambled to secure their homes and protect themselves. Authorities reported widespread power outages caused by strong winds knocking over trees and debris, while public transportation systems like buses, ferries, and subways were suspended to protect residents and avoid further disruptions.
Local governments in affected areas have advised residents to remain indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. “We are closely tracking the storm’s progress and taking all measures necessary to ensure their safety,” stated Liang Jiakun of Guangdong’s Emergency Management Agency. Evacuations are already taking place in high-risk areas while we work closely with local authorities in providing shelter and relief.
Hainan Island province south of Guangdong saw hundreds of fishing boats brought ashore and secured as authorities issued warnings of storm surges and potential coastal flooding. Many coastal towns were placed on high alert, and residents relocated temporarily shelters as a preventive measure. Furthermore, Hainan’s government closed schools, businesses, and government offices during peak storm hours so as to minimize exposure.
As of midday today, over 200,000 people had already been evacuated across the region and more are expected to follow as the storm makes landfall. Officials are concerned about potential for widespread landslides and further flooding as Tapah moves through mountainous regions of southern China.
China is already dealing with the aftermath of other natural disasters, including recent floods which have devastated parts of its landmass. Tapah may slowly weaken as it moves across southern China but remains capable of creating widespread damage – particularly to rural and coastal regions.
International weather agencies such as the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) are closely tracking this storm, with teams prepared to assist relief efforts if required. China has mobilized emergency response teams specifically dedicated to supporting rescue and recovery operations for areas most severely impacted.
Whilst authorities assess the full scope of damage from Typhoon Tapah, their priority remains on safeguarding public safety and managing its immediate aftermath. Residents have been encouraged to stay alert and follow evacuation orders so as to reduce casualties as it continues its destructive path in southern China.