South China's Hainan province escalated its emergency response to Level I, the highest alert tier, on Sunday morning as Typhoon Kajiki advanced toward the region. Authorities warned residents and travelers to prepare for heavy rains, strong winds, and potential coastal flooding.
The typhoon, moving northwest at 15-20 km/h, is expected to make landfall near Hainan’s eastern coast by Monday afternoon. Local meteorological agencies project sustained winds of up to 180 km/h, with rainfall exceeding 300 mm in some areas. Ferry services between Hainan and the Chinese mainland have been suspended, while airlines canceled over 120 flights at Haikou Meilan International Airport.
Hainan’s emergency management department mobilized over 10,000 personnel for disaster response, including evacuations in low-lying communities. "We urge all residents to avoid coastal areas and follow official updates closely," stated a department spokesperson. Businesses in tourism-reliant cities like Sanya have begun securing properties, with some hotels offering free cancellations.
Typhoon Kajiki’s approach coincides with peak travel season in Hainan, a hub for international tourism and trade. Analysts note potential short-term disruptions to regional supply chains, particularly for tropical agriculture and electronics manufacturing. The province contributes 2.3% of China’s GDP, with key industries including renewable energy and aerospace.
This marks Hainan’s first Level I emergency activation since 2022. The island experiences an average of 7-8 typhoons annually, though climate researchers report a 12% increase in storm intensity over the past decade.
