Southern China on high alert as Typhoon Wutip makes landfall

GUANGZHOU/NANNING, June 13 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in south China's Guangdong Province and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region have significantly escalated their emergency responses to Typhoon Wutip, the first typhoon of the year, as it brings threats of severe wind, rain and storm surges.

Typhoon Wutip made landfall near Dongfang City in south China's island province of Hainan around 11 p.m. on Friday, according to the Hainan Meteorological Service.

Guangdong elevated its emergency response to wind control from Level III to Level II at 9 p.m. Friday, and raised its water conservancy and typhoon response measures to Level II simultaneously. Guangxi also upgraded its response to Level III at 5 p.m. Friday.

Meteorological warnings indicate extremely powerful winds, particularly in coastal areas. Guangdong has forecast widespread heavy precipitation over the weekend, while Guangxi has warned of heavy-to-torrential rain, with localized extreme torrential rains surpassing 400 millimeters.

Extensive preparatory measures are underway in both regions. All offshore fishing boats have been ordered to return to port, personnel have been directed to return from fishing rafts, marine ranches and offshore wind power platforms have been fully evacuated, and coastal tourist sites have been closed. ■