Kathmandu— East China's Zhejiang Province elevated its typhoon emergency response to Level I, the highest level, at 8 p.m. Thursday as Typhoon Saudel is forecast to make landfall in the region. As of 5 p.m., the storm’s center was located approximately 320 kilometers east of Wenzhou, with maximum wind speeds reaching 45 meters per second. The typhoon is moving at a rate of 10 to 15 kilometers per hour and is expected to impact Zhejiang's coastline from early morning through afternoon on Friday, bringing the risk of strong winds, high tides, heavy rainfall, and potential geological hazards.

Typhoon Strength and Projected Path

Typhoon Saudel, the 18th typhoon this year, is currently moving towards Zhejiang Province. At 5 p.m. Thursday, its center was situated around 320 kilometers east of Wenzhou, carrying maximum wind speeds of 45 meters per second near its core. The storm is progressing at a speed of 10 to 15 kilometers per hour and is predicted to make landfall along the Zhejiang coast between early morning and afternoon on Friday.

Heightened Risk of Combined Hazards

Hu Yaowen, chief engineer of the Zhejiang Provincial Emergency Management Department, cautioned that the typhoon’s impact will coincide with an astronomical high tide. This combination is expected to exacerbate conditions, creating a dangerous mix of strong winds, towering waves, elevated tides, and substantial rainfall. Previous heavy rains have already saturated rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, increasing the potential for mountain torrents, mudslides, and landslides.

Proactive Preparations Underway

Zhejiang authorities are undertaking comprehensive risk inspections in preparation for the typhoon’s arrival. Over 4,000 monitoring personnel have conducted more than 19,000 patrols across over 7,200 potential geological hazard sites and risk zones. Additionally, 564 geological experts have been deployed to 73 counties to aid in identifying and assessing risks. In terms of flood control measures, plain river networks throughout the province have drained 437 million cubic meters of water, while large and medium-sized reservoirs have released 456 million cubic meters in advance.

Marine Operations Suspended, Evacuations Completed

All 14,682 marine fishing vessels in Zhejiang have sought shelter in harbors. A total of 47,983 crew members and 1,906 aquaculture workers have been evacuated from the sea, ensuring no personnel or vessels remain exposed to the approaching typhoon.

Authorities continue to monitor the storm’s progress and implement precautionary measures as Typhoon Saudel nears the Zhejiang coastline.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.