**Typhoon Wipha, a powerful storm comparable to a Category 2 hurricane, wreaks havoc across Hong Kong and Macau, prompting severe weather alerts and extensive flight cancellations amid safety concerns for residents.**
**Typhoon Wipha Strikes Hong Kong and Macau with Devastating Force**
**Typhoon Wipha Strikes Hong Kong and Macau with Devastating Force**
**Category 2 Storm Delivers Intense Winds and Rain as It Approaches Mainland China**
Typhoon Wipha unleashed its fury on Hong Kong and Macau on Sunday, bringing torrential rain and ferocious winds as it rapidly approached mainland China. The storm has been categorized as equivalent to a Category 2 Atlantic hurricane, with sustained winds reaching approximately 106 miles per hour, according to the Hong Kong Observatory.
As Wipha continued its path, meteorological forecasts predicted further intensification as the storm moved west, targeting the vibrant casino destination of Macau before making landfall between the southern Chinese cities of Shenzhen and Zhanjiang in Guangdong Province later in the day.
In a rare occurrence, Hong Kong issued a No. 10 hurricane signal—the highest on its alert scale—indicating the serious threat posed by the storm for the first time since 2023, while Macau raised an alarm of equal severity. In light of the impending danger, authorities advised residents to remain indoors and avoid windows due to the risk of debris.
The disruptive nature of Typhoon Wipha was evident at Hong Kong International Airport, where more than 400 flights faced rescheduling. Similarly, nearly 200 flights were canceled at Macau International Airport. Along the predicted path of the storm, several southern Chinese cities halted work in offices and ports, suspended train services, and canceled flights in precautionary measures.
In Zhuhai, a city of approximately 2.5 million residents, local officials closed construction sites, parks, ferries, piers, and outdoor playgrounds on Sunday. Zhanjiang also prepared by shutting schools and certain workplaces as a precaution.
After making landfall, reports suggest Wipha will continue to navigate through southern China before once again heading offshore, with the possibility of making landfall in Vietnam, according to statements from China's meteorological agency.
This ongoing situation will be closely monitored as updates emerge.
