JUST IN: China Shuts Schools And Businesses Ahead Of Massive Storm [PHOTO]

JUST IN: China Shuts Schools And Businesses Ahead Of Massive Storm [PHOTO]

China has ordered the closure of schools and businesses in at least 10 cities as Typhoon Ragasa, characterised by massive floods, is set to hit the country’s south.

The storms threaten tens of millions of people and could disrupt industrial activities across the cities.

Authorities in Guangdong province said Ragasa is expected to make landfall within 24 hours in the central and western coastal areas.

The province’s emergency management bureau urged cities to take “decisive measures” to protect lives, safeguard property, and minimise damage.

The storm, shaking the South China Sea after lashing the Philippines, is carrying winds of up to 230 kilometres per hour, according to the Hong Kong Observatory.

According to AFP, Guangdong has already activated its highest emergency response for windstorms.

In Shenzhen, a major technology and industrial centre, officials ordered the evacuation of 400,000 residents and announced citywide shutdowns of markets and workplaces.

“Except for emergency rescue personnel and those ensuring essential services, please do not go out casually,” the city’s emergency management authority told AFP.

Other cities implementing similar suspension measures include Zhuhai, Dongguan, and Foshan. Foshan’s emergency headquarters warned that “strong winds and heavy rainfall will severely impact the city, posing a critical defence situation.”

Maritime authorities also advised vessels in the South China Sea, Taiwan Strait, and coastal waters of Guangdong to exercise maximum caution.