Chinese authorities have evacuated nearly 6,000 residents from Hainan province and suspended train services as Typhoon Kalmaegi, which caused over 100 deaths in the Philippines, barrels through the South China Sea towards the island.
The storm’s initial impact on the Philippines was severe. Kalmaegi made landfall on Tuesday, causing widespread damage and claiming more than 100 lives before moving into the South China Sea on Wednesday with winds exceeding 130 kilometers per hour.
In Hainan, China’s southernmost province, heavy rainfall has led to extensive flooding in multiple cities. Over 5,800 people have been moved from low-lying areas to temporary shelters, particularly in the Ding’an district.
Local agencies have declared an upgraded emergency response. An “Orange Alert” has been issued for geological disaster risks in several areas, including Qinghai, Wanning, and Tongchang.
Qinghai city reported that rivers such as Jialang and Jiucqu have seen water levels rise above warning thresholds since Monday. Rescue workers spent the night evacuating over 150 people from 64 households in Longhe town, which was among the hardest hit by two days of torrential rain.
Despite some improvement, with six out of 21 flooded villages reportedly returning to normal, officials are still working to drain floodwaters and clear submerged transportation routes.
The Hainan Meteorological Center has warned that Kalmaegi could intensify further as it moves into the southeastern South China Sea. This could bring another wave of heavy rain to the province in the coming days.
Officials have instructed local departments to inspect drainage systems and reservoirs across the province. This is a preventative measure against further urban flooding.
They also cautioned residents to avoid high-risk areas, including flooded bridges and low-lying urban zones.
China Railway has announced the suspension of all passenger train services to and from Hainan Island. This stoppage is scheduled from Thursday through Friday for passenger safety.