Typhoon Bebinca, with maximum sustained winds of about 144 km/h, is about 400 km southeast of Shanghai. The storm is expected to make landfall on China's east coast later tomorrow night (September 16).
China issued a red alert for the typhoon this afternoon (September 15), warning of strong winds and heavy rain. Meanwhile, Shanghai has decided to suspend all traffic, call ships to return to shore and close tourist attractions, including Shanghai Disneyland, in preparation for the storm.
The strongest typhoon ever recorded to hit Shanghai was Typhoon Gloria in 1949, when it swept through the city with wind gusts reaching 144 km/h.
The last time Shanghai was threatened by a powerful typhoon was Typhoon Muifa in 2022. However, that storm made landfall in China's eastern Zhejiang province. About 1.6 million people were evacuated.
From 8pm local time on September 15, all flights at Shanghai's two airports will be canceled. The airport operator said it will announce adjustments depending on the storm's developments.
In addition, railway stations in Shanghai have also suspended some services to ensure passenger safety, and trains to and from Shanghai will be delayed.
Amusement parks such as Shanghai Disneyland, Jinjiang Amusement Park and Shanghai Wildlife Park have all been closed. Most ferry services to and from Chongming Island, one of China's largest islands in Shanghai, have also been suspended.
In Zhejiang province, boats were told to return to shore and some parks in Hangzhou, the provincial capital, were announced to be closed.
Typhoon Bebinca made landfall in China during the Mid-Autumn Festival, a three-day holiday when Chinese people often travel or participate in outdoor activities.
China's Ministry of Water Resources has issued a level IV emergency response warning for possible flooding in Shanghai and the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui.
Given the complex weather situation, tourists planning to travel to provinces and cities in eastern China during this time should pay close attention to weather reports and storm warnings from weather agencies.
Prepare alternative plans in case your schedule is affected, consider canceling or postponing your trip.
If you are in a forecasted affected area and cannot evacuate, limit your time outdoors and stay away from high-risk areas such as coastlines and flood-prone areas.
Carry emergency supplies, including flashlights, extra batteries, and basic food.
Follow local government instructions and regulations. Contact your embassy or consulate in China if you need emergency assistance.
