A formidable typhoon has struck the Chinese coast for the second time in under a week, prompting a mass evacuation of nearly two million residents from areas in its path. Typhoon Bavi made landfall on Saturday evening in Taizhou before moving inland and hitting Wenzhou just after midnight. The storm, which has already caused devastation in parts of Japan and Taiwan, continues to pose significant risks due to its extensive rain and moisture.
Typhoon Bavi’s Course and Impact
Typhoon Bavi, initially classified as a super typhoon, reached wind speeds of 290 km/h (180 mph) when it first impacted Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands last Monday. After weakening, its winds decreased to 144 km/h, but the storm still wreaked havoc as it swept through the Sakishima Islands, part of Japan’s Ryukyu chain. Reports indicate that five individuals sustained injuries, and many remain without power.
As Bavi approached Taiwan, it skirted the northern tip of the island, causing heavy rainfall that triggered landslides and forced thousands to evacuate. No fatalities have been reported in Taiwan, but the authorities are on high alert, anticipating potential landslides and flooding. The island’s government has warned residents to brace for rainfall accumulation of up to 1 metre (39 inches).
Evacuations and Precautions in China
In light of the looming threat, officials in eastern Zhejiang province and neighbouring Fujian have taken proactive measures. More than 1.7 million people were evacuated from coastal regions, with safety measures implemented to mitigate any worst-case scenarios. Schools and businesses have halted operations, and transport networks have been heavily disrupted, with over 400 flights and numerous train services cancelled.
Wenzhou, a city of approximately 10 million residents, lies directly in Bavi’s path, causing widespread concern. The local government has stressed that these evacuations are vital for public safety, given the storm’s potential to unleash exceptionally heavy rains.
Aftermath of Previous Storms
The damage inflicted by Typhoon Bavi comes on the heels of another storm, Typhoon Maysak, which devastated southern China just days earlier. Maysak resulted in at least 39 fatalities and significant agricultural losses, with livestock casualties compounding the disaster’s impact. Additionally, it led to the unusual occurrence of two tornadoes in Hubei province, highlighting the increasing severity of storm activity in the region.
As Bavi continues its course, the central and eastern areas of China are bracing for further severe weather, with officials urging citizens to stay vigilant.
Why it Matters
The ongoing series of typhoons in East Asia underscores the growing urgency of climate resilience in a region increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather. The impact of these storms extends far beyond immediate damage, affecting livelihoods, food security, and local economies. As millions cope with the aftermath, the need for effective disaster preparedness and response strategies has never been clearer, signalling a critical moment for regional authorities to strengthen their approaches to climate-related challenges.
