Typhoon Noul Weakens, but Flood and Landslide Risks Remain Across Southern China
More than 700,000 people were evacuated in Guangdong before landfall, while authorities continue to warn of torrential rain, flash floods and landslides after the storm moved inland.
HONG KONG — Typhoon Noul has weakened after making landfall in southern China, but authorities continue to warn that heavy rainfall may trigger floods and landslides across several provinces.
The storm made landfall in Huidong County in Guangdong with maximum sustained winds of approximately 110 kilometres per hour. It was described as the strongest typhoon to make landfall in China so far this year.
More than 715,000 people were evacuated in Guangdong before landfall, according to Associated Press reporting based on official figures. Hundreds of flights and train services were cancelled, while emergency teams were deployed across affected coastal and urban areas.
Hong Kong also experienced major disruption. Around 350 flights were cancelled, injuries were reported and sections of scaffolding were damaged as strong winds moved across the city. Operations began resuming as warning signals were lowered.
Although Noul weakened while travelling inland, China's Ministry of Water Resources and weather authorities continued warning of torrential rainfall and flash-flood danger through Tuesday. Areas facing heightened risk include mountain communities, river valleys, construction sites and low-lying urban districts.
A tropical cyclone can remain dangerous after its wind speed falls. Heavy rain may saturate hillsides, cause rivers to rise and damage roads long after the centre of the storm has moved away.
Residents in affected areas have been advised to follow official alerts, avoid flooded roads and comply quickly with evacuation instructions. Drivers should never attempt to cross moving floodwater because depth, current strength and road damage may not be visible.
Authorities are assessing damage to homes, agriculture, transport, electricity networks and public infrastructure. Recovery work may include temporary accommodation, road repairs, crop support and assistance for businesses unable to operate during the emergency.
Noul was the third significant tropical cyclone to affect China during July, increasing pressure on emergency services during the country's peak flood-control period.
Evacuation, injury and damage figures may change. This report will be updated with the latest official statements.
Source: Reuters; China's Ministry of Water Resources
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