China on High Alert as Typhoon Saola Approaches and Second Storm Looms

Chinese state media is reporting that preparations are underway as Typhoon Saola approaches southern China. The storm is expected to make landfall in the province of Guangzhou on Friday afternoon with sustained winds of 119 kph (74 mph) and gusts of up to 220 kph (137 mph). In anticipation of the typhoon, at least 121 passenger trains will suspend services, and people in coastal areas are being warned to stay away from the coastline.

The National Meteorological Centre has issued a red alert for potentially destructive winds and possible flooding, with some areas expected to receive up to 200 millimeters (8 inches) of rain. Common safety precautions, such as recalling fishing boats to port and moving people who work on coastal fish and shrimp farms further inland, are also being implemented. However, no evacuations figures have been released at this time. As the storm approaches Hong Kong, the city's leader, John Lee, has requested various government departments to plan ahead and urged residents to take precautionary measures.

The Hong Kong Observatory has issued warnings for squally showers, strengthening winds, and a possible storm surge in low-lying areas. Typhoon Saola has already passed south of Taiwan, causing heavy rain and strong winds in the island's southern cities. The storm has also affected the Philippines, causing flooding and displacing thousands of people. Seaports have suspended inter-island ferry services, and over a hundred houses have been damaged.

In addition to Typhoon Saola, a second storm named Haikui is brewing near Japan's Ryukyu islands and is expected to develop into a typhoon as it moves towards the Chinese coast. It is forecasted to make landfall south of Shanghai on Sunday morning with sustained winds of 165 kph (102 mph). These storms come in the wake of heavy rains and deadly flooding across China, which have resulted in numerous casualties. The country is now bracing for the impact of Typhoon Saola and preparing for the possible effects of Typhoon Haikui.