Typhoon Bavi Landfall in China: Mass Evacuations Underway
Typhoon Bavi Landfall in China Triggers Massive Response
Typhoon Bavi made its first landfall in Taizhou on Saturday evening before striking Wenzhou around midnight. The storm, spanning nearly 1,000 kilometers at its widest point, has triggered one of China’s largest evacuation efforts this year.
Before reaching China, the typhoon battered a chain of remote Japanese islands and brought heavy rainfall to northern Taiwan. Earlier, landslides in the Philippines claimed at least 17 lives. Although Bavi has weakened to a Category 1 typhoon, it continues to carry vast amounts of moisture capable of causing severe flooding.
Widespread Evacuations
More than 1.7 million people have been evacuated from Zhejiang Province, while thousands more have relocated from neighboring regions. Authorities warned of exceptionally heavy rainfall across eastern Zhejiang and northeastern Fujian.
Schools, workplaces, and outdoor activities have been suspended throughout Zhejiang. Around 400 flights and dozens of train services have also been cancelled. Officials continue to urge residents to remain indoors and follow safety instructions.
Regional Impact
After crossing Japan’s southern islands, the storm moved toward China’s eastern coast, bringing heavy rain to Taiwan along its path. Meanwhile, the Philippines continues to recover from deadly landslides caused by the same weather system.
Forecasters warn that Bavi could trigger widespread flooding because of its extensive rain bands. Coastal communities remain on high alert, while emergency services have been fully mobilized.
Authorities have deployed food, drinking water, medical supplies, and emergency shelters for displaced residents. Recovery operations will begin once conditions improve.