In a massive evacuation effort, China has relocated 400,000 residents from Hainan Island as Super Typhoon Yagi, one of the most powerful storms of the year, approaches. The typhoon is expected to make landfall on Friday, bringing with it potentially catastrophic winds and torrential rain.

Authorities have suspended trains, boats, and flights in the region, while schools and businesses have been closed in anticipation of the storm. The evacuation is part of a broader strategy to minimize casualties and damage, with officials urging residents to seek shelter in safe locations.

Super Typhoon Yagi has intensified significantly, now packing winds of up to 240 km/h (150 mph) near its eye. Meteorologists warn that the storm could cause severe damage, particularly in Hainan and neighboring Guangdong province, which is China’s most populous region.

Earlier this week, Yagi wreaked havoc in the northern Philippines, causing floods and landslides that resulted in at least 13 deaths. The storm has since doubled in strength, making it the second-strongest typhoon recorded globally this year.

In addition to the evacuations, all tourist attractions on Hainan Island have been shut down since Wednesday. The world’s longest sea crossing, the bridge linking Hong Kong with Macau and Zhuhai, has also been closed. Authorities expect rainfall to reach up to 500mm, further exacerbating the risk of flooding.

As Super Typhoon Yagi bears down on Hainan, the extensive evacuation and precautionary measures underscore the severity of the threat. The coming hours will be critical as China braces for the impact of this formidable storm.