The National Meteorological Center (NMC) raised a yellow typhoon alert and a blue heavy rain alert at 10 a.m. Sunday as Typhoon Tapah, the 16th typhoon of the year, strengthened from a tropical depression in the South China Sea.
Over the next three days, coastal communities along the southern Chinese mainland, especially Guangdong and Guangxi provinces, should prepare for Force 9-10 winds, gusts up to Force 13-14, and 100-230 mm of rain. By Sunday morning, the storm's center sat about 435 km southeast of Yangjiang City, packing 23 m/s winds and a 990 hPa central pressure.
The NMC predicts Tapah will track northwest at 10-15 km/h, intensifying as it moves toward landfall between Zhuhai and Zhanjiang cities. Landfall is expected between midnight and noon on September 8, bringing 28-33 m/s winds, equivalent to a strong tropical storm or a typhoon.
Key Impacts to Watch
- Wind: Sustained speeds up to 90 km/h, gusts over 100 km/h.
- Rainfall: 100-230 mm along coasts; inland provinces like Jiangsu, Anhui, Henan, Chongqing, and Shaanxi could see hourly rates of 20-50 mm.
- Flooding & Landslides: High-risk in low-lying areas and river basins.
Residents and travelers in affected zones should secure loose objects, avoid flood-prone roads, and stay tuned to local advisories. With digital nomads and adventurers drawn to southern China's vibrant cities, it's crucial to plan around potential disruptions and prioritize safety.
Typhoon Tapah will weaken gradually after landfall, but its heavy rain fringe could extend far inland, impacting millions. Stay informed, stay safe, and use real-time weather updates to navigate this turbulent storm.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
