Heavy winds and torrential rains have struck southern China’s Hainan Island and parts of Guangdong Province as Typhoon Kajiki moves westward over open waters toward Vietnam’s central coast. According to China’s official Xinhua News Agency, approximately 20,000 people were evacuated from areas vulnerable to the storm’s impact.
In preparation for the typhoon, fishing boats were ordered back to port, and over 21,000 crew members returned to shore. Videos shared by Guangdong Radio and Television displayed the storm’s ferocity, with winds snapping tree branches and violently rocking docked boats, causing waves to crash over the pier.
Typhoon Intensifies as It Approaches Land
The China National Meteorological Centre reported that Kajiki has intensified with maximum sustained winds reaching 162 km/h. Rainfall predictions for southern Hainan Island, including the renowned tourist destination of Sanya, are expected to range between 25 to 35 centimetres. As a precaution, Sanya has closed businesses and popular tourist attractions, while public transportation and shipping services have been suspended. Authorities in the city urged residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.
Kajiki, which translates to spearfish or swordfish in Japanese, is anticipated to make landfall on Vietnam’s coast on Monday, October 16, 2023. In response to the impending storm, Vietnamese authorities have initiated plans to evacuate over 586,000 individuals from several central provinces, including Thanh Hoa, Quang Tri, Hue, and Danang.
Flight Cancellations and Safety Measures
In light of the severe weather, seven coastal provinces in Vietnam imposed a ban on boat departures early Sunday. Vietnam Airlines announced the cancellation of at least 22 flights to and from central cities scheduled for Sunday and Monday. Vietjet Aviation also reported cancellations and delays but has not provided specific details.
As the situation develops, both China and Vietnam continue to monitor the storm closely, prioritizing the safety of their residents and visitors. The impact of Typhoon Kajiki underscores the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather events in the region, prompting increased preparedness and response efforts from local authorities.
