Typhoon Noul Hits Southern China: 340,000 Evacuated and Flights Canceled

Typhoon Noul made landfall along the coast of Huidong county in the city of Huizhou, southern Guangdong province, bringing maximum sustained winds of 90 mph near its center and prompting the evacuation of more than 340,000 people, according to state broadcaster CCTV and Hong Kong’s Observatory.

Landfall and Evacuations in Guangdong Province

Typhoon Noul made landfall at approximately 3:50 a.m. local time on Sunday, according to China’s national weather center. Prior to the storm’s arrival, regional authorities placed Guangdong province on high alert. State broadcaster CCTV reported that more than 340,000 residents were relocated for safety by Saturday afternoon. The storm’s approach also caused significant disruptions to regional infrastructure, with train services canceled for Sunday, according to the China News Service.

Impact on Hong Kong and Transportation Disruption

Hong Kong’s Observatory tracked Noul as it moved across the South China Sea and edged closer to the Guangdong coast. Ahead of the storm, passersby walked through the Mong Kok district under heavy rain and wind. The adverse weather forced widespread transit halts, with Hong Kong airport’s website showing more than 150 flights canceled across Saturday and Sunday, alongside warnings of potential further cancellations.

Local police reported that strong winds contributed to the partial collapse of a large scaffolding structure on a high-rise building in Hong Kong on Saturday afternoon. Initial reports indicated there were no injuries resulting from the collapse.

Regional Weather Patterns and Prior Storms

China’s National Meteorological Center forecasted heavy rain and strong winds across parts of southern Guangdong and southeastern Fujian provinces over the weekend. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration reported that Noul brought rainfall to parts of southern and eastern Taiwan while passing over waters south of the island before moving away on Saturday.

This severe weather follows earlier tropical systems in the region this month. According to official tracking, Typhoon Bavi made landfall on July 11, leading to the evacuation of more than 2 million people after bringing strong winds and rain to eastern China. Another system, Typhoon Maysak, made landfall in southern China earlier in the month on July 3.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where did Typhoon Noul make landfall?

According to China’s national weather center, Typhoon Noul made landfall along the coast of Huidong county in the city of Huizhou, southern Guangdong province, at approximately 3:50 a.m. local time on Sunday.

What were the wind speeds associated with Typhoon Noul?

Hong Kong’s Observatory reported that Noul intensified to reach maximum sustained winds of 90 mph near its center.

How many people were evacuated in Guangdong province?

State broadcaster CCTV reported that more than 340,000 people were relocated for safety by Saturday afternoon ahead of the storm.

Were flights and trains canceled due to the typhoon?

Yes. Hong Kong airport’s website listed more than 150 flight cancellations for Saturday and Sunday, while the China News Service reported that train services in Guangdong province were canceled for Sunday.