At least 15 people have died in the southern Philippines due to landslides caused by Typhoon Bavi,which is now barreling across the Pacific toward Taiwan and southeastern China. This storm, measuring 1,000 kilometers at its widest point,is anticipated to be one of the most powerful storms to hit region in decades.
As Bavi approaches, authorities in Taiwan are preparing for significant rainfall, with forecasts predicting up to 1 meter (39 inches) in some areas. The island's defense ministry has placed approximately 29,000 soldiers on standby to assist with potential relief efforts. Taiwan's Central Weather Administration has indicated that Bavi could be largest storm to impact the island since 1987 .
In the Philippines, the devastation has been severe. Families on the island of Mindanao were buried overnight as landslides struck,and rescue operations are ongoing to locate those still missing. Moderate to heavy rains are expected to persist throughout the weekend, exacerbating the already dire situation.
Residents across East Asia are taking precautions as the storm approaches. Supermarkets have seen shelves emptied as people stock up on essentials. Fishermen are securing their boats, and farmers are rushing to harvest crops while the weather remains calm . One fisherman, Chen Ming-hui, warned, "Don't be fooled by the nice and calm weather now. A storm like this could be the most terrifying."
In Japan, the remote Sakishima Islands are on high alert. Residents are reinforcing their homes against the impending storm,with many taping windows and using windproof nets. Airlines in the region have grounded flights,with Japan Airlines canceling over 100 flights and All Nippon Airways halting more than 160,affecting around 20,000 travelers .
Meanwhile, across the Taiwan Strait,China is preparing for Bavi's impact. Authorities have warned of significant effects,particularly in southeastern Fujian province. Ma Jun, director of China's Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs,noted that Bavi's size and energy could lead to its remnants affecting northern provinces like Jiangsu and Anhui, which are less accustomed to typhoons. Preparations are being intensified in these areas.
Some forecasts suggest that Bavi may make landfall twice in China,raising concerns about potential for widespread damage. The nation is still recovering from the devastation caused by Typhoon Maysak earlier this week, which left at least 39 people dead and resulted in over 130,000 evacuations, primarily in Guangxi. Maysak also caused significant agricultural losses and even triggered rare tornadoes in central Hubei province .
As Bavi approaches,the region remains on high alert . Schools have suspended classes,and transportation disruptions are widespread. storm's trajectory and intensity have raised fears of further casualties and destruction, prompting emergency measures across affected areas.
With the situation evolving rapidly, local governments and communities are bracing for the worst as Typhoon Bavi draws nearer. The storm's impact will likely be felt long after it passes, as recovery efforts begin in the wake of its destructive path.
