Super Typhoon Yagi Paralyzes China's 'Hawaii'

Super Typhoon Yagi, the strongest storm in Asia this year, hit China's Hainan province, causing widespread power outages and disruptions. With wind speeds reaching 234 km/h, it is the second-most powerful tropical cyclone globally in 2024. Efforts for repair and restoration are underway as Yagi moves towards Vietnam.

Super Typhoon Yagi, Asia's strongest storm this year, made landfall in China's Hainan province on Friday, bringing fierce gales and torrential rain that resulted in extensive power outages. Known as 'China's Hawaii,' the tourist hotspot experienced winds up to 234 km/h, cementing Yagi's status as the world's second-most powerful tropical cyclone of 2024.

The storm had already doubled in intensity after causing 16 fatalities in the northern Philippines earlier in the week. As Yagi struck Hainan's Wenchang city, around 830,000 households faced power outages. An emergency team of 7,000 was mobilized for immediate repair works, with 260,000 households seeing their power restored by Friday night.

Preemptive measures included flight cancellations, business closures, and advisories for over 10 million residents to stay indoors. The storm also disrupted travel and commerce in Hong Kong, Macau, and Vietnam, with additional evacuations in Guangdong. Despite the massive impact, the damage has been relatively contained.

(With inputs from agencies.)