China evacuates over 340,000 due to Typhoon Noul, flights canceled

Southern China was struck by Typhoon Noul on July 26, bringing with it fierce winds and heavy rainfall, prompting extensive emergency rescue operations. State media in China reported that this was one of the most severe typhoons to hit the country this year. Prior to the typhoon's landfall, authorities had evacuated over 340,000 residents and suspended railway services and other operations by the early morning of July 26. Numerous flights were also canceled. The typhoon made landfall at approximately 3:50 AM near the coastal city of Yihai in Guangdong Province, about 80 kilometers northeast of Hong Kong. According to China Central Television (CCTV), the maximum wind speed upon landfall reached 162 kilometers per hour. The typhoon had already caused severe damage to the northern islands of the Philippines as it intensified while crossing the South China Sea. The Philippine emergency rescue authorities announced on July 26 that three people had died and one was missing due to the typhoon. In the Philippines, over 9,300 people were evacuated, and 235 homes were damaged. Southern China experienced strong winds and heavy rain on July 26, with debris scattered across roads. In Hong Kong, at least 350 flights were canceled on July 26, resulting in 21 injuries and the toppling of 300 trees. CCTV reported that the typhoon continued to batter inland areas such as Jiangxi, Hunan, and Hubei provinces with strong winds and rain. Furthermore, rainfall caused by the typhoon is expected to persist in Henan and Shandong provinces until July 28. Source: Koh Santep Khmer