The Typhoon Bavi China emergency intensified on Saturday as authorities evacuated more than 600,000 people ahead of the storm’s expected landfall near the eastern city of Wenzhou. Officials warned that despite weakening over cooler waters, the typhoon still poses a serious threat because of its vast rain bands and the potential for widespread flooding.
Chinese state media reported that more than 500,000 residents were evacuated from Zhejiang province, where Wenzhou is located, while over 100,000 people were moved to safety in neighbouring Fujian province. The storm is forecast to make landfall in the early hours of Sunday near Wenzhou, a city with a population of around 10 million.
Meteorologists said Typhoon Bavi has slowed as it moves northwest, but the system continues to carry enormous amounts of moisture. Forecasters warned that the rain bands, stretching roughly the size of France, could trigger flash floods, landslides and severe disruptions even if wind speeds continue to decrease.
Residents in Wenzhou prepared by stocking drinking water and essential household supplies before markets closed. Local authorities assured the public that emergency supplies remain sufficient and urged people to avoid panic buying while following official evacuation orders and weather advisories.
Before approaching China, Typhoon Bavi battered Japan’s southern Sakishima island chain with heavy rain and strong winds before passing north of Taiwan. While Japan and Taiwan reported no deaths directly linked to the storm, the Philippines confirmed 17 fatalities caused by heavy rains associated with an enhanced southwest monsoon influenced by Bavi.
Taiwan evacuated more than 14,000 residents from mountainous areas as a precaution. Nearly 920 international flights and all 282 domestic flights were cancelled, while schools and government offices closed across most cities. Although the typhoon did not make landfall on the island, authorities warned of significant rainfall and dangerous weather conditions.
The Typhoon Bavi China response remains on high alert as emergency agencies monitor the storm’s progress. Authorities continue to advise residents in vulnerable areas to stay indoors, follow official instructions and prepare for possible flooding, strong winds and transport disruptions over the coming days.
