Tropical Storm Nepartak is set to hit eastern China on Friday, July 9th, according to the China Meteorological Administration. The storm is expected to bring heavy rains and strong winds to the region, and officials have issued warnings and advised residents to take necessary precautions.
As of Thursday evening, Nepartak had reached typhoon strength, with sustained winds of up to 120 km/hour (74 mph) and gusts of up to 155 km/hour (96 mph). It is currently moving west-northwest across the East China Sea towards China’s eastern coast, and is expected to make landfall in the province of Fujian.
The Fujian Provincial Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters has activated a Level III emergency response, the lowest level, and is closely monitoring the storm’s progress. Officials have ordered fishing boats to return to port and urged local residents to reinforce their homes, secure loose items, and be prepared for possible flooding and landslides.
The storm is also expected to cause disruptions to transportation and air travel in the region. Airports in Fujian and neighboring Zhejiang province have canceled flights, and high-speed trains have been suspended. Ferry services have also been suspended in Fujian and neighboring Taiwan.
In addition to China, Nepartak is also expected to affect parts of Taiwan, which has already experienced heavy rains and flooding in recent days. The storm is forecast to pass between Taiwan and Japan before making landfall in China.
Tropical storms and typhoons are common in the western Pacific Ocean during the summer months, and can cause significant damage and loss of life in affected areas. In 2020, China experienced widespread flooding and landslides due to a series of storms and heavy rains, which caused $32 billion in economic losses and resulted in over 280 deaths.
As Nepartak approaches, authorities are urging residents to stay informed and take precautions to ensure their safety. By following official instructions and staying prepared, people can better withstand the effects of the storm and minimize its impact on their lives and communities.