Provincial Level IV Disaster Relief Emergency Response Activated Due to Typhoon Wipha

In response to the wind, rain, and tidal impacts brought by this year’s 6th typhoon “Wipha” and its secondary disasters in Guangdong Province, the Provincial Disaster Reduction Committee initiated a Level IV disaster relief emergency response at 19:00 on July 20, in accordance with the “Guangdong Provincial Natural Disaster Relief Emergency Plan.”

Typhoon Wipha Makes Landfall in Taishan, Guangdong

The center of Typhoon Wipha made landfall along the coast of Taishan City, Guangdong Province, around 17:50 today (July 20), with maximum winds near the center reaching Force 12 (33 m/s) and a minimum central pressure of 975 hPa.

National Oceanic Forecasting Center Issues Alerts

Due to the influence of Typhoon Wipha (typhoon-level), the National Oceanic Forecasting Center issued an orange wave alert and a yellow storm surge alert at 16:00 on July 20.

Geological Disaster Risk Warning Issued for Guangdong

As Typhoon Wipha approaches, the Guangdong Provincial Department of Natural Resources and the Provincial Meteorological Bureau jointly issued a geological disaster risk warning at 09:00 on July 20.

Railway Adjustments to Ensure Passenger Safety

To mitigate the typhoon’s impact on railway operations and ensure passenger safety, the Guangzhou Railway Group has further optimized and adjusted train schedules based on risk assessments.

Shenzhen Bay Port Temporarily Closed

Due to Typhoon Wipha, the Hong Kong Observatory issued the “Hurricane Signal No. 10” at 09:20 on July 20. Following coordination between Shenzhen and Hong Kong authorities, the Shenzhen Bay Port suspended customs clearance services starting at 12:15 on July 20, with reopening to be announced later.

Typhoon Wipha Expected to Strengthen Before Landfall

As of 10:00 on July 20, the center of Typhoon Wipha was located about 90 km southeast of Zhuhai City, moving west-northwest at 20-25 km/h. It is expected to strengthen further before making landfall along the coast between Zhuhai and Zhanjiang from midday to night on July 20, with potential winds of Force 13-14 (38-42 m/s).

Macau-Zhuhai Border Crossings Reopen

After mutual agreement between Macau and Zhuhai, border checkpoints including the Hengqin Port, Gongbei Port, and Qingmao Port resumed operations at 17:00 on July 20.

Typhoon Wipha Poses Severe Threat to Guangdong

Typhoon Wipha is forecast to make landfall between Shenzhen and Zhanjiang in the afternoon or evening of July 20, potentially becoming the strongest typhoon to hit Guangdong this year, bringing severe wind and rain.

Shenzhen Railway Stations Resume Operations

Based on the typhoon’s trajectory, Shenzhen North Station, Shenzhen Station, and Futian Station resumed train operations at 15:00 on July 20, with additional services to be added as needed.

Chikungunya Fever Cases Reported in Foshan

As of July 19, Foshan City has reported a cumulative total of 1,873 confirmed cases of Chikungunya fever, primarily linked to imported transmission.

Emergency Shelters Opened in Zhuhai

In preparation for Typhoon Wipha, Zhuhai’s Jinwan District has opened 68 emergency shelters, accommodating approximately 2,000 evacuees with sufficient supplies.

Guangdong Upgrades Typhoon Response to Level II

The Guangdong Provincial Flood, Drought, and Wind Prevention Headquarters upgraded its emergency response to Level II at 11:00 on July 19, urging residents to take precautions against severe weather.

Typhoon Wipha Disrupts Air and Sea Travel

Shenzhen Airport anticipates significant flight disruptions, while ferry services and coastal attractions in Jiangmen have been suspended for safety reasons.

Mass Evacuations Conducted in Coastal Areas

As of July 20, over 440,000 people have been evacuated across Guangdong, including 12,036 from maritime areas and 428,364 from inland zones

Guangdong Province

Guangdong Province, located in southern China, is a vibrant economic and cultural hub with a history dating back over 2,000 years. It was a key starting point of the Maritime Silk Road and played a major role in China’s trade and modernization, particularly during the Qing Dynasty and reform era. Today, Guangdong is known for its dynamic cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen, rich Cantonese heritage, and influential cuisine.

Taishan City

Taishan City, located in Guangdong Province, China, is a coastal county-level city known for its rich cultural heritage and as a major hometown for overseas Chinese. Historically, it was a key emigration hub, with many residents migrating abroad during the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly to North America. The city is also famous for its Diaolou (watchtowers), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which blend Chinese and Western architectural styles.

National Oceanic Forecasting Center

The **National Oceanic Forecasting Center** is a scientific institution dedicated to monitoring and predicting oceanic conditions, including weather, tides, and marine hazards. Typically operated by a government or research body, such centers use advanced technology to support maritime safety, environmental protection, and climate research. While specific histories vary by country, many were established in the 20th century as oceanographic science expanded.

Shenzhen Bay Port

Shenzhen Bay Port is a major border crossing between Shenzhen, China, and Hong Kong, opened in 2007 to facilitate travel and trade between the two regions. It features a unique “co-location” arrangement, where immigration facilities for both sides operate under one roof, streamlining customs and immigration processes. The port symbolizes the economic integration of mainland China and Hong Kong, serving as a key hub in the Greater Bay Area development plan.

Zhuhai City

Zhuhai City, located in southern Guangdong Province, is a coastal city known for its scenic beauty and modern development. Established as a city in 1979, it became one of China’s first Special Economic Zones (SEZs), playing a key role in the country’s economic reforms. Today, Zhuhai is famous for its clean environment, proximity to Macau, and landmarks like the Zhuhai Fisher Girl statue and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.

Hengqin Port

Hengqin Port is a major border crossing between Macau and Zhuhai in Guangdong Province, China, located on Hengqin Island. Opened in 2014, it facilitates travel and trade between mainland China and Macau, supporting the region’s economic integration. The port is part of the broader development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, enhancing connectivity and cooperation in the Pearl River Delta.

Gongbei Port

Gongbei Port is a major land border crossing between Macau and Zhuhai in southern China, serving as a key gateway for travel and trade between the two regions. Established in the late 19th century during the Qing Dynasty, it has grown into one of the busiest ports in China, facilitating millions of crossings annually. The area is also known for its vibrant commercial activity, with shopping centers and markets catering to tourists and locals alike.

Qingmao Port

Qingmao Port, located in Kinmen County, Taiwan, is a historic harbor that played a significant role in maritime trade and military defense during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It served as a key transit point for goods and migrants between Fujian Province and Taiwan, reflecting Kinmen’s strategic importance. Today, it is a cultural site that preserves traditional architecture and offers insights into the region’s coastal heritage.