Half a million people evacuated as typhoon Fitow hits southeastern China

A typhoon hit southeastern China with powerful winds and heavy rains that cut power, cancelled flights and suspended train services.

Typhoon Fitow struck Fuding city of Fujian province with winds of up to 151km (94 miles) an hour yesterday morning, before weakening to a tropical storm, the National Meteorological Centre said.

More than half a million people were evacuated and fishing boats were called back to shore while authorities issued a red alert – the highest warning – as the typhoon approached.

The provincial flood relief agency in Zhejiang, which neighbours Fujian, said 574,000 people had been evacuated by yesterday evening and 35,800 vessels returned to shore.

Fujian’s government said 177,000 people had been moved to safety and nearly 30,000 fishing boats called back.

The typhoon cut power in towns and counties in Zhejiang province, while high-speed rail services in the region were suspended.

At least 27 flights out of Wenzhou airport in Zhejiang were cancelled, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.

One boy was being treated for injuries, Xinhua reported.

The typhoon began dumping heavy and torrential rain across the southeastern seaboard, with rainfall of up to 29cm (eight inches) in some parts as well as strongly gusting winds. – (AP)