Heavy rain and high winds have swept the southeast coast since last night as Typhoon Haitang, the ninth named storm of the year, approaches. Fujian, Zhejiang and Guangdong have all raised their typhoon response to the top level — the highest declared since the flood season began.

At this morning’s briefing, forecasters said the storm is tracking northwest at 18 kilometres per hour and holding at severe typhoon strength. Landfall is expected on the central-southern Fujian coast, though the track may still shift north and later updates should be watched closely.

Transport and schools: two days of closures

Rail operators have suspended 46 passenger services along the coastal corridor, with free refunds available for 30 days. More than 200 flights have been cancelled or delayed, and travellers to the region are being advised to rebook.

Education authorities in several areas have closed primary and secondary schools and kindergartens for two days, and some universities have pushed back registration for new students. Supermarkets report ample stocks of rice, flour and cooking oil at stable prices, with no sign of panic buying.

What worries us is the flooding after landfall, not the wind on the day itself.— A duty officer at the provincial flood and drought headquarters

Shelter: 210,000 people moved to nearby refuges

Coastal townships began moving people yesterday afternoon, prioritising low-lying areas, older housing and construction sites. More than 1,300 refuges have opened in school gymnasiums and community halls, providing beds, meals and basic medical care.

Fishing boats returned to harbour early along the Fujian coast. The top-level typhoon response was activated overnight.
Fishing boats returned to harbour early along the Fujian coast. The top-level typhoon response was activated overnight.
  • Top-level response: activated simultaneously in three provinces, the highest this year
  • Relocation: more than 210,000 coastal residents moved
  • Transport: 46 passenger trains suspended, over 200 flights cancelled
  • Refuges: more than 1,300 schools and halls opened

The emergency management ministry has sent three teams to the coast to oversee preparations, with particular attention to reservoir management, landslide-prone sites and urban drainage. Officials warn that the storm’s outer bands will linger and heavy rain is likely to continue well after landfall.