Fires Create Apocalyptic Scenes in France and Spain as China Raises Flood Alert After Powerful Typhoon, More Than 715,000 Evacuated

While France and Spain are battling apocalyptic conditions caused by wildfires, Typhoon Noul has struck China’s southern coast. More than 715,000 residents have been evacuated by the authorities, while hundreds of flights have been canceled in China and Hong Kong. Chinese authorities have described Noul as the most powerful typhoon to hit the country this year.

The typhoon made landfall at around 3:50 a.m. on Sunday. As it moves inland, it is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to several regions.

Because of the risk of flash flooding, Chinese authorities have activated the highest alert level in several provinces.

According to the National Meteorological Center’s forecast, most of southern China will experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. Exceptionally high rainfall totals are forecast in certain areas of Fujian province.

The government has urged local authorities to exercise greater caution in areas most vulnerable to flooding, including mountainous areas, riverbanks, construction sites, valleys and bridges.

Rail services in Guangdong province were suspended on Sunday. Meanwhile, around 350 flights were canceled in Hong Kong. At least nine people were injured during the typhoon’s passage, according to the authorities, while flights are expected to resume gradually on Sunday afternoon. Rainfall brought by Noul has also affected Taiwan, particularly the southern and eastern parts of the island, as the typhoon gradually moves away from the area.