**Southern China Braces for Typhoon Saudel**
Southern China is on high alert as Typhoon Saudel, which has intensified over the South China Sea, is expected to make landfall or pass closely to the Guangdong coast between Thursday afternoon and Friday morning. The National Meteorological Centre has issued warnings regarding the potential impact of the storm, predicting heavy rainfall, gale-force winds, and severe storms that could lead to flooding and other weather-related damage.
As a precautionary measure, several cities in the region have suspended classes, and local authorities have been directed to implement protective measures for residents and to mitigate potential economic losses. The situation has prompted the issuance of a yellow typhoon warning in Nan’ao County, effective from noon on Wednesday, alongside blue warnings activated in other areas, including Chaozhou, Zhejiang, Shandong, and Zhuhai.
The Nan’ao Bridge, a crucial connection between the island and the mainland, was closed to traffic at 2 PM on Wednesday, with authorities stating that it would remain closed until conditions improve.
At 8 AM on Wednesday, Typhoon Saudel was located approximately 195 kilometers east-southeast of Shanwei in the northeastern South China Sea. The storm was reported to have maximum sustained winds of 18 meters per second, with stronger winds extending up to 300 kilometers from its center. Meteorologists anticipate that Saudel will turn westward and follow the Guangdong coast, with a projected path that raises the likelihood of landfall or a close passage between the cities of Shantou and Huizhou.
As the region prepares for the typhoon's arrival, residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.