Are Tens of Thousands Evacuated in Hainan as Typhoon Wutip Approaches?
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Synopsis
As Typhoon Wutip nears Hainan Province, tens of thousands are evacuated to safety. Discover the measures being taken to protect lives and property as this powerful storm approaches the coast, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Key Takeaways
- Tens of thousands evacuated in Hainan Province.
- Typhoon Wutip is the first typhoon of the year.
- Authorities issued a Level III typhoon alert.
- All fishing vessels have returned to port.
- Evacuees are being provided with daily necessities.
Haikou, June 13 (NationPress) Thousands of residents have been relocated to safe zones in Hainan Province in southern China as Typhoon Wutip, marking the year's first typhoon, draws closer.
By 8 p.m. on Thursday, a total of 16,561 individuals had been moved from vulnerable construction sites, low-lying flood-prone regions, and areas susceptible to flash flooding.
All 30,721 fishing vessels in the province have returned to ports or found shelter, with over 40,000 personnel evacuated from these vessels.
As Typhoon Wutip gained strength, the provincial meteorological service issued a Level III typhoon alert as of 11 a.m. on Friday.
By 10 a.m. Friday, the storm's center was detected over coastal waters near Ledong Li Autonomous County, with maximum sustained winds nearing 28 metres per second. Heavy rain is forecasted across many parts of the province by 8 p.m.
Recent meteorological predictions indicate that Typhoon Wutip is likely to head northward at a speed of 5 to 10 kilometres per hour, with minimal change in intensity.
The typhoon may either make landfall or skim the coast between Ledong County and Dongfang City on Friday, classified as a severe tropical storm with winds ranging from 25 to 28 metres per second, according to Xinhua news agency.
Local authorities reported the rescue of 12 crew members from a cargo ship in Hainan as Typhoon Wutip approaches. The Nanhai Rescue Bureau of the Ministry of Transport received a distress call Thursday evening regarding the crew, located about 14 nautical miles (approx. 26 kilometres) offshore.
A rescue vessel departed at 6:30 p.m. Thursday and arrived by 11:50 p.m., contending with waves reaching heights of three meters. Rescuers successfully evacuated the crew members within 43 minutes and they are expected to return to anchorage by noon on Friday.
The rescued individuals will remain on the vessel, provided with daily necessities and medical support until weather conditions improve.
All kindergartens, schools, construction sites, and tourism venues in Sanya have been closed. Sailing of ships is prohibited, and all flights at Sanya airport were suspended from 10 p.m. Thursday. High-speed rail services throughout Hainan have also been halted, with a return to operation expected on Saturday.
The Nanhai Rescue Bureau continues to monitor Typhoon Wutip closely, standing by with seven rescue vessels and four helicopters ready for emergencies.
Wutip, the first typhoon to hit China this year, formed over the South China Sea on Wednesday, per the China Meteorological Administration (CMA).
This summer, China has been contending with a series of severe weather events, from intense heatwaves and droughts to substantial rainfall and flooding.
As the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases, China is also at the forefront of renewable energy initiatives and has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2060.
Last August, devastating rains from Typhoon Gaemi, which traveled from the Philippines and Taiwan before impacting eastern China, resulted in at least 30 fatalities and left many others unaccounted for.
Point of View
The safety of citizens is paramount as Hainan braces for Typhoon Wutip. The proactive response by local authorities showcases the importance of preparedness and community resilience in the face of natural disasters.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Typhoon Wutip and where is it located?
Typhoon Wutip is the first typhoon of the year, currently located near Hainan Province in Southern China, with significant wind speeds and heavy rainfall expected.
How many people have been evacuated in Hainan?
Over 16,500 people have been evacuated from construction sites and flood-prone areas in Hainan Province as a precautionary measure.
What measures are being taken in response to Typhoon Wutip?
Local authorities have closed schools, construction sites, and tourist attractions, and all fishing vessels have returned to port or found shelter.
Is there a risk to ships and flights in Hainan?
Yes, all ships are prohibited from sailing and flights at Sanya airport have been suspended due to the impending storm.
What support is being provided to evacuees?
Evacuees are being housed on rescue vessels where they receive food, medical services, and other necessary assistance until it is safe to return ashore.
