Typhoon Matmo, the 21st typhoon of the year that intensified into a severe typhoon early Sunday morning, made landfall at around 14:50 on the eastern coast of Xuwen County in south China's Guangdong Province.
At landfall, it packed maximum winds of 42 meters per second and recorded a central pressure of 965 hPa.
Before its landfall, it brought powerful winds and surging waves to the eastern coast of the Leizhou Peninsula and Hainan Province in south China.
In response, meteorological authorities issued a red alert for typhoon and an orange alert for heavy rainfall, representing the top two levels in China's four-tier weather warning system.
As it approached, Matmo packed strong winds and high waves to coastal areas. Seawater flooded docks and coastal shops at a fishing port in Xuwen, prompting full-scale evacuation of local residents. Power and water supplies were cut off at the port.
To cope with Typhoon Matmo, authorities in Hainan's capital Haikou activated emergency measures, including halts to classes, work, transport, and outdoor activities and closure of scenic spots.
Several cross-sea bridges were closed as strong winds and torrential rain swept the area.
Rescue teams have been pre-positioned, and no major incidents have been reported so far.
Typhoon Matmo makes landfall in Guangdong
Typhoon Matmo makes landfall in Guangdong
Typhoon Matmo makes landfall in Guangdong
Typhoon Matmo makes landfall in Guangdong
Typhoon Matmo makes landfall in Guangdong
