Typhoon Noul struck southern China early Sunday, forcing the evacuation of more than 715,000 people in Guangdong province as authorities canceled hundreds of flights and issued weather alerts for heavy rain and strong winds.
Landfall and Immediate Impact
According to China’s National Meteorological Center, Noul made landfall in Huidong county, Huizhou city, at approximately 3:50 a.m. local time Sunday. The storm, which had intensified over the South China Sea, brought maximum sustained winds of 90 mph near its center before weakening as it moved inland.
Hong Kong’s Observatory reported that Noul’s winds had decreased to 68 mph by Sunday morning, though the storm continued to deliver strong gusts and torrential rain across Guangdong and parts of Fujian province. State-owned China National Radio confirmed the relocation of 715,000 residents in Guangdong, while train services in the province were suspended for the day.
Disruptions in Hong Kong and Taiwan
Hong Kong’s airport authority reported over 350 flight cancellations for Saturday and Sunday, with additional delays expected. Local police also responded to a partial scaffolding collapse on a high-rise building Saturday afternoon, though no injuries were reported in the incident.
Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration noted that Noul brought rainfall to southern and eastern regions as it passed south of the island. The storm moved away from Taiwan by Saturday, reducing its immediate threat to the area.
Regional Preparedness and Next Steps
China’s National Meteorological Center warned that southern Guangdong and southeastern Fujian would continue to experience heavy rain and strong winds through the weekend. Authorities remain on high alert, monitoring the storm’s progression as it weakens inland.
Noul follows two other recent typhoons—Bavi and Maysak—which struck eastern and southern China earlier this month, displacing millions. Officials urge residents in affected areas to stay updated on weather advisories and heed evacuation orders as conditions evolve.
