Typhoon Koinu threatens Southern China with heavy rains and strong winds, after causing devastation in Taiwan

 Southern China is preparing for heavy rainstorms and strong winds as Typhoon Koinu approaches the coast of Guangdong province. The typhoon, which has already caused one death and injured hundreds in Taiwan, is expected to make landfall in China in the coming days. The Chinese National Meteorological Centre (NMC) has issued warnings and advisories for the affected regions. Typhoon Koinu, named after the Japanese word for "puppy," is projected to bring heavy rainfall to the coasts of Guangdong and neighboring Fujian province over the next three days.

The NMC has predicted that Guangdong could see rainfall exceeding 300mm. Additionally, a yellow alert has been issued for strong winds, the third-highest level in the NMC's four-colored warning system. In Taiwan, Typhoon Koinu caused significant damage, resulting in one fatality and nearly 400 injuries. Orchid Island, a remote area with approximately 5,000 residents, was particularly hard-hit. Although there were no casualties reported on the island, extensive damage occurred. More than 70 boats capsized or sank in the island's harbor, and two schools suffered severe damage.

Power outages were also reported in various areas due to the impact of the typhoon. Efforts are underway in Taiwan to provide aid and support to the affected communities. Government and air force helicopters have been dispatched to restore electricity and telecommunications. However, the arrival of the first boats carrying supplies is not expected until Saturday morning. Civilian flights remain suspended as recovery and relief operations continue.

On the Chinese mainland, Guangdong province has already implemented precautionary measures in anticipation of Typhoon Koinu's arrival. Dozens of ferry routes have been suspended since late Thursday, and the NMC has urged tourists to avoid beach resorts on the final day of a week-long national holiday, falling on Friday. As of 8 am on Friday, Typhoon Koinu was located approximately 144km off the coast of the southern Guangdong city of Shanwei, with wind speeds slowing down from the peak of 252km/h recorded in Taiwan on Thursday. The NMC predicts that the typhoon will gradually weaken into a strong tropical storm as it continues westward along China's southern coast.