Typhoon Noul triggers red alert in China; over 410 flights and 150 high-speed trains cancelled

China has issued its highest-level red alert as Typhoon Noul moves closer to the southern coast of Guangdong province. Authorities have stepped up emergency preparations, while Hong Kong has cancelled hundreds of flights and high-speed train services ahead of the storm.

Where is Typhoon Noul heading?

According to China’s National Meteorological Center (NMC), Typhoon Noul, the country’s 12th tropical cyclone of the year, is moving toward the coast of Guangdong province.

In its latest bulletin issued late Saturday, the weather agency said the center of the typhoon was located about 100 kilometres southeast of Huidong County in Huizhou City, over the South China Sea.

Typhoon Noul strengthens with powerful winds

The National Meteorological Center said the strongest winds near the center of the storm have reached Force-14 intensity.

The typhoon is expected to move northwest at around 20 km/h and could become even stronger before making landfall. According to state news agency Xinhua, the storm is expected to weaken gradually after crossing the Guangdong coast and moving north-northwest.

China steps up emergency measures

As the storm approaches, China’s National Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters has raised its emergency response for floods and typhoons to Level III in Guangdong province.

Authorities have also activated a Level IV emergency response in Jiangxi and Hunan provinces due to the risk of heavy rainfall and flooding.

Hong Kong cancels flights and high-speed trains

Hong Kong has also issued weather alerts as Typhoon Noul moves closer to the region.

More than 410 flights and 150 high-speed rail services have been cancelled due to the approaching storm. The Home Affairs Department has opened 28 temporary shelters to help people who may need a safe place during the typhoon.

Officials in both China and Hong Kong have urged residents to stay alert, follow weather warnings, and avoid unnecessary travel. Emergency and rescue teams have also been placed on high alert to respond to any situation caused by the storm.

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