Millions Moved as Storm Nears Wenzhou
China has evacuated more than 1.8 million people as Typhoon Bavi moves toward the country’s eastern coast.
The storm is expected to make landfall near Wenzhou, a major city in Zhejiang province with around 10 million residents. Authorities moved people from high-risk coastal and low-lying areas as heavy rain and strong winds approached the region.
State media reported large-scale evacuations in Zhejiang and neighbouring Fujian province. Emergency teams were placed on alert, while transport services, fishing activities and public movement were restricted in several areas.
Although Bavi has weakened while moving over cooler seas, weather officials warned that it still carries a dangerous amount of moisture. Its rain bands are large and could bring flooding, landslides and strong winds across eastern China.
Japan and Taiwan Hit by Heavy Rain and Wind
Before moving toward China, Typhoon Bavi brought heavy rain and powerful winds to Japan’s southern Sakishima island chain. Flights were cancelled and residents were advised to remain cautious as the storm passed through the region.
Taiwan also took major precautions as Bavi moved close to its northern coast. Authorities evacuated more than 14,000 people, mostly from mountainous and high-risk areas.
The storm did not make direct landfall in Taiwan, but it still brought strong winds, rain and transport disruption. Hundreds of international and domestic flights were cancelled, while offices and schools were closed in many cities and counties.
Officials said the precautions were necessary because some areas were forecast to receive extremely heavy rainfall. In Taipei, winds and rain affected daily life, while stronger gusts in some neighbourhoods knocked down trees and raised concerns over swollen rivers.
Philippines Reports Deadly Monsoon Impact
The impact of Typhoon Bavi was also felt in the Philippines, where heavy monsoon rains intensified by the storm caused deadly flooding and landslides.
At least 17 people were reported dead due to weather-related incidents. Thousands of others were displaced and moved to emergency shelters.
In Wenzhou, residents prepared for the storm by buying basic supplies and securing homes. Some said they were concerned but confident that local authorities had made strong preparations.
Officials continued to urge people to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from coastal areas and follow emergency instructions.
Typhoon Bavi remains a serious threat because of its size, rain intensity and potential to trigger flooding across densely populated areas.
Authorities in China are expected to continue emergency response measures until the storm weakens and moves further inland.
