Super Typhoon Doksuri is set to make landfall in southern China on Friday, prompting warnings and preparations from authorities. The typhoon is expected to bypass Taiwan and the Philippines, but still poses a significant threat to China. Doksuri is predicted to be the most powerful typhoon to hit the country this year.
As the storm approaches, China has urged fishing boats to seek shelter and farmers to expedite their harvest. Taiwan has also suspended its annual military drills for safety reasons. The island nation is bracing for what could be the most damaging typhoon in almost four years. It remains uncertain how Doksuri will affect the ongoing “Han Kuang” exercise, which focuses on defense strategies in the event of a Chinese blockade.
Philippine authorities have already raised storm warning levels and begun evacuating coastal communities in anticipation of Doksuri. The typhoon, with top wind speeds of 138 mph, is expected to sweep past the Philippines and impact lightly populated islands before reaching China.
The size of Typhoon Doksuri, spanning nearly 1,000 km, brings concerns about potential damage to crops. China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs has warned of the possible impact on autumn grain crops, particularly high-stalk crops like corn and rice in rural areas. They have advised farmers to quickly harvest mature crops and take necessary precautions for recovery after the storm.
After making landfall, Doksuri is expected to bring torrential rain and strong winds to densely populated areas in China. The Chinese provinces of Fujian and Guangdong are particularly at risk. Authorities in Fujian have ordered offshore fishing boats to seek refuge at nearby ports by Wednesday noon.
Meanwhile, Taiwan’s weather bureau has issued warnings for heavy rains and strong winds in southern Pingtun county. In Kaohsiung, efforts are underway to collect drifting containers from the sea following the sinking of container ship Angel last week.
Premier Chen Chien-jen has urged all government ministries in Taiwan to be prepared and make necessary arrangements. He emphasized the importance of not underestimating the threats posed by the approaching typhoon.
As the region braces for Typhoon Doksuri, it serves as a reminder of the widespread disruptions and potential dangers caused by these powerful storms. Authorities and communities are taking precautions to mitigate the impact and ensure the safety of their citizens.
Reporting by Ryan Woo in Beijing, Yimou Lee in Taipei, and Karen Lema in Manila. Edited by Stephen Coates and Raju Gopalakrishnan.