The strongest typhoon of this year so far, “Saola”, has made landfall in Yangjiang in southern China. The typhoon turned towards southern China after causing significant damage to Taiwan and Hong Kong. Heavy rain and strong winds resulted in 17 deaths in Taiwan. Additionally, 17 more people are missing due to heavy rainfall and a river overflow. This Category 5 typhoon has also caused substantial damage to Hong Kong. According to relevant authorities in Hong Kong, 90 people were hospitalized with various injuries related to the typhoon, and more than 800 people sought shelter in temporary facilities set up by the government.
According to meteorological agencies, the typhoon is now heading towards Maoming, where many of China’s oil refineries are located. Authorities have predicted that wave heights in the Guangdong region could reach up to nine feet. The southern coastal cities of China in the typhoon’s path are home to about 50 million people. While more than two million people have already been evacuated from the most vulnerable areas to safer regions, Chinese media reports that relevant agencies are on high alert with emergency equipment ready.
