Credited from: CHANNELNEWSASIA
Typhoon Bavi, potentially the most destructive storm in years, is currently churning towards Taiwan, where authorities are gearing up for strong winds and heavy rain. With winds nearing 200 km/h, Bavi spans approximately 1,000 km at its widest point, roughly the same width as France. It is expected to make landfall in China's eastern Fujian province on July 11, following its passage over Taiwan and Japan's southern islands, according to Channel News Asia and India Times.
Earlier reports indicate that landslides triggered by heavy rains from the storm have already resulted in at least 15 fatalities in the Philippines, particularly on Mindanao Island. Search efforts are ongoing for additional people believed to be missing, as families affected by the landslides continue to face dire conditions. The threat of further rainfall adds a layer of urgency for rescue operations, as stated by BBC and India Times.
In Taiwan, the Central Weather Administration has issued warnings of potential rainfall accumulations of up to 1 meter in the northern mountains, leading to massive preparations including the deployment of approximately 29,000 soldiers on standby for emergency response. Local fishermen are busy securing their boats, and residents are queuing for sandbags as they brace for Bavi. "Don't be fooled by the nice and calm weather now," cautioned Chen Ming-hui, a local fisherman, stressing the potential severity of the situation, according to Channel News Asia and India Times.
As preparations ramp up, Japan's meteorological agency has also warned of high winds and potentially dangerous conditions, particularly affecting the Sakishima Islands. Authorities have grounded flights extensively, with major airlines canceling over 100 flights impacting thousands of passengers. This disruption aligns with preparations across various nations in the path of the storm, as emphasized by both BBC and India Times.
The ongoing situation remains critical as recovery efforts from Typhoon Maysak continue in China, where at least 39 fatalities have been reported. Authorities are keen to prevent further loss of life and property as Bavi approaches, making weather preparedness a top priority across the affected regions, according to Channel News Asia and BBC.