Typhoon Wutip Hits South China Sea, Hainan on High Alert

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

China’s southern island province, Hainan, is on high alert after a tropical depression in the South China Sea became the year’s first typhoon on Wednesday morning. The storm, named Typhoon Wutip, is already bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the region.

At 8 a.m. on Wednesday, the centre of Typhoon Wutip was about 165 kilometers southeast of Yongxing Dao, which is part of Sansha City—China’s southernmost city. The typhoon had winds blowing at 18 meters per second, and its central air pressure was measured at 995 hectopascals.

From 8 a.m. Tuesday to 7 a.m. Wednesday, Sansha experienced very heavy rain, with the highest recorded rainfall reaching 108.6 millimeters. Strong wind gusts went up to 18.7 meters per second, causing concern for safety in many areas.

To prepare for the typhoon, Hainan’s disaster management committee activated an emergency response plan on Tuesday. They asked local officials to check reservoirs, city drainage systems, and tourist areas to make sure everything is safe. They also warned about landslides and other hidden dangers in risky places.

Fishing boats and offshore workers were told to be extra careful and take steps to stay safe from the strong winds at sea.

Officials are closely watching the typhoon and will continue to give updates to help keep people safe.