Typhoon Bavi Forces China to Evacuate Nearly Two Million People

Tropical Storm Bavi has weakened but continues to bring heavy rain and strong winds to eastern China, prompting the evacuation of nearly two million people. The storm made landfall in Yuhuan City, Zhejiang Province, on Saturday night, moving towards the densely populated Yueqing county.

“

We could hear roofs flying off and tree branches falling.

Residents reported hearing roofs tearing off and trees falling. CCTV footage showed over 1,300 trees uprooted in Yueqing, with floodwaters reaching car-tire levels. Emergency crews used heavy machinery to clear fallen trees blocking roads. National meteorological centers reported wind speeds of 101 kilometers per hour on Saturday.

The storm, described as being as large as France, is expected to bring more heavy rain to eastern and northern China in the coming days. It has already significantly impacted transportation, with major train stations in Hangzhou halting operations and hundreds of flights canceled at Xiaoshan International Airport. Shanghai also saw widespread cancellations of flights and train departures.

“

I'm a little worried, but I think everything will be fine.

By Sunday afternoon, Bavi had moved into Anhui Province, southwest of Zhejiang, and was forecast to continue towards the Yellow Sea. While not as powerful as when it struck U.S. Pacific islands last week, Bavi still poses risks due to its high moisture content. Residents like Huang Xinghuan in Wenzhou expressed cautious optimism, having stocked up on supplies and drawing on past experiences with typhoons.

“

We have already been through typhoons before. We will be able to get through this.