Thousands Evacuated as Typhoon Noul Threatens Southern China

Typhoon Noul is unleashing strong winds and heavy rain across southern China, including Hong Kong. Authorities have evacuated hundreds of thousands in Guangdong province, and the region is on high alert.

Current Situation

The Hong Kong Observatory reports Noul has intensified, with maximum sustained winds reaching 90 mph at its center. The typhoon is moving across the South China Sea, nearing Guangdong’s coast.

Forecasts indicate it might make landfall Sunday morning near southern cities like Huizhou and Shanwei. This will likely bring strong winds and showers to these areas, according to China’s weather center.

Impact and Precautions

Over 340,000 evacuations occurred in Guangdong by Saturday afternoon, as reported by state broadcaster CCTV. The China News Service announced the cancellation of train services for Sunday.

Heavy rain and strong winds are expected in parts of southern Guangdong and southeastern Fujian provinces throughout the weekend. Hong Kong’s airport has canceled over 150 flights for Saturday and Sunday, with more potential disruptions.

Mainland authorities have issued their highest-tier red typhoon alert, while Hong Kong’s observatory activated storm signal No. 8, one of the city’s top alert levels.

Incidents and Regional Effects

In Hong Kong, parts of scaffolding on a high-rise collapsed with no reported injuries. In Taiwan, Noul is causing rainfall in the southern and eastern regions, moving away from the island.

Background Context

Earlier this month, Typhoon Bavi struck eastern China, causing the evacuation of over 2 million people. It landed on July 11. Another typhoon, Maysak, made landfall in southern China on July 3.

Authorities are closely monitoring developments to ensure safety and preparedness as Typhoon Noul progresses.