The eyewall of super typhoon Yagi is currently brushing China's Hainan Island, marking the most powerful storm China has faced in over a decade. With winds reaching 150 miles per hour (240 kilometers per hour), equivalent to a strong category four Atlantic hurricane, Yagi is on the verge of making official landfall.
Residents of Hainan and Guangdong province have been diligently preparing for the impending impact of this ferocious storm. As of noon today, Guangdong province has evacuated nearly 575,000 individuals, while Hainan island has seen over 418,000 evacuations. The eye wall of the typhoon is currently skirting the northeastern region of Hainan, with conditions rapidly deteriorating.
Authorities have taken proactive measures, suspending ferry, bus, and rail services, as well as flights. Residents have been stocking up on essentials, leading to empty store shelves. Both residents and tourists have been advised to remain indoors, with several tourist attractions closing down in anticipation of the storm's arrival.
While Hainan is renowned for its sandy beaches and resorts, the island is not accustomed to super typhoon landfalls. Despite its history of weathering storms, the government has issued warnings of potential massive and destructive winds. The impending impact of Yagi is expected to result in fallen trees, property damage, power outages, storm surges, and flooding.
Although it is not peak travel season, the island is bracing for significant disruptions. As the super typhoon approaches landfall, the resilience of Hainan will be put to the test, with the potential for widespread damage and disruption across the region.
