Typhoon Wutip, the first typhoon of the year, made landfall near Dongfang City in south China's Hainan island around 11 p.m. Friday. Though it has weakened to a severe tropical storm with winds of about 30 m/s, its impact is still being felt!
Authorities in Hainan, Guangdong, and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region are on high alert. In Ledong Li Autonomous County, gusts at level 10 forced a local power plant to pause operations 🚨. At the popular Tianya Haijiao in Sanya City, strong winds and massive waves led to swift evacuations as safety remained the top priority.
Rescue operations are in full swing! The South China Sea Rescue Bureau rescued 12 crew members from a cargo ship stranded in the storm's path, deploying 7 rescue vessels and 4 helicopters to keep everyone secure. This rapid response underlines the region's preparedness and community spirit.
In Haikou, proactive measures include stockpiling around 4,500 tonnes of vegetables to ensure stable supply and prices during the storm. A local vegetable retailer explained, "We don't need to leave our community, because all our basic daily needs are met here," highlighting the effective local planning.
Meanwhile, in Zhanjiang, all schools have been closed and plans are in place to relocate residents from vulnerable areas if necessary. Several coastal railway services have been adjusted or suspended to prioritize public safety. On Friday, China raised its flood and typhoon emergency response from Level III to Level IV, deploying specialist teams for enhanced disaster prevention.
This event is a clear reminder that nature's force is both unpredictable and powerful. Just like the monsoon seasons familiar to many in South and Southeast Asia, Typhoon Wutip underscores the importance of preparedness, resilience, and strong community coordination. Stay informed, stay safe, and keep riding the wave of change! 🌪️💪
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
