Hundreds of thousands evacuated as Typhoon Bavi approaches China

Super Typhoon Bavi, which reached peak intensity with sustained winds of 150 km/h and a central pressure of 945 hPa, has been downgraded to a severe tropical storm by the Japan Meteorological Agency, according to the latest advisory released early Thursday. The system, now moving westward at 12 km/h, remains centered east of the Luzon island chain and continues to generate strong gusts, heavy rain, and high surf along the eastern seaboard of the Philippines and the southern coast of Taiwan. Meteorologists warn that the storm’s rain bands are capable of producing localized flooding and landslides, particularly in mountainous terrain, and that wind speeds of up to 100 km/h are still expected in coastal areas.

Authorities in the affected regions have maintained storm‑surge alerts and advised residents to secure property, avoid low‑lying zones, and heed evacuation orders where issued. Forecast models project a gradual weakening as Bavi encounters cooler sea‑surface temperatures, with an anticipated transition to a tropical depression within the next 48 hours. Nonetheless, officials stress that the storm’s residual hazards warrant continued monitoring and preparedness until the system dissipates.