Coastal communities in southern China are preparing for Typhoon Matmo, the 21st typhoon of the year, as it approaches with sustained winds of up to 108 km/h. China's Ministry of Water Resources has activated a Level IV emergency response in Guangdong and Hainan provinces, urging residents to prioritize safety amid forecasts of torrential rains and storm surges.
Authorities have ordered all vessels to return to ports and initiated evacuations in low-lying areas. 'We're coordinating with local teams to reinforce flood defenses and ensure emergency supplies are ready,' stated a ministry spokesperson during a press briefing Wednesday morning.
The typhoon's projected path threatens key shipping lanes and could temporarily disrupt operations at major ports, including Shenzhen and Zhanjiang. Meteorologists warn of potential flash floods in mountainous regions, while airlines have begun canceling flights to Haikou and Sanya.
This development comes as climate researchers highlight increasing typhoon intensity in the South China Sea, with 2023 recording 15% more tropical cyclones than the annual average. Business leaders are advised to monitor supply chain updates, while travelers should check local advisories before visiting affected regions.
