As Typhoon Saudel lashes east China's Zhejiang coast with gale-force winds and storm surges, authorities have evacuated residents, recalled all fishing vessels, suspended ferry services, and coastal households have boarded up their windows.
Typhoon Saudel, the 18th typhoon of this year, made landfall along the coast of east China's Zhejiang Province on Friday, packing maximum sustained winds of 35 meters per second (Force 12) near its center, according to the provincial meteorological observatory.
Saudel landed along the coast of Yuhuan City, a city under the jurisdiction of Taizhou City, Zhejiang, at around 8:05 Friday.
In Shipu Township, Xiangshan County, Ningbo City of Zhejiang, wind speeds have intensified significantly over the past 24 hours. Along the waterfront promenade adjacent to Shipu Fishing Port, the impact of the strong gusts is visibly evident. Glass panels have been shattered by the force of the wind, with debris scattered across the pavement. Roadside vegetation like some reinforced trees have been uprooted despite prior securing measures. Local maintenance crews have been dispatched to clear fallen trees and restore access.
Meteorological authorities have warned that the coastal waters of Xiangshan are currently in a tide period, and the superimposed effect of the typhoon-induced storm surge could push water levels up to 120 centimeters above normal. Residents in low-lying coastal zones were advised to remain on high alert for potential seawater backflow.
Meanwhile, in Yuhuan City, Taizhou, the typhoon has brought sustained heavy rainfall and powerful gusts. In Dongsha Fishing Village, a settlement surrounded by the sea on three sides and open to the East China Sea, waves driven by strong winds crashed violently against seawalls, sending spray several meters into the air.
Preparations had been made in advance. Many coastal households have installed steel-reinforced grooves and wooden storm shutters to protect their properties.
Yuhuan raised its typhoon emergency response to Level I, the highest level, at 14:00 Thursday. Traffic controls have been implemented. As of 11:00 on Thursday, authorities had identified and arranged for the evacuation of 52,000 residents across Yuhuan. All 379 registered fishing vessels in the city have returned to port and taken shelter, and all eight ferry routes have been suspended.
Zhejiang in full swing as Typhoon Saudel makes landfall
