Hainan Province is currently experiencing severe weather conditions due to Typhoon “Tianmei,” which is particularly impacting the city of Sansha. According to the Hainan Meteorological Center’s forecast early on October 26, the typhoon will start to rotate over the waters from southern Hainan Island to the Xisha Islands beginning the night of October 27, and will then move eastward while gradually weakening.
At 7 AM that day, the typhoon’s center was located at 17.4 degrees north latitude and 113.6 degrees east longitude, approximately 150 kilometers northwest of Yongxing Island in Sansha. The maximum wind speed near the center was recorded at 11 levels (30 meters per second), with wind radii of 280 to 450 kilometers for level 7 winds, and 140 to 180 kilometers for level 10 winds.
Meteorological experts expect “Tianmei” to move westward at a speed of 20 to 25 kilometers per hour. The storm’s intensity might increase, potentially reaching typhoon levels (33 to 35 meters per second, level 12) before it begins its eastward movement starting on the night of October 27, eventually losing strength.
As of now, Sansha is already experiencing strong winds and heavy rain. Reports indicate that from 8 AM on October 25 to 7 AM on October 26, rainfall exceeded 50 millimeters on Dong Island and Yongxing Island, with the highest measurement at Dong Island in the Xisha Archipelago reaching 113.1 millimeters. Additionally, gusts exceeding level 8 have been observed on seven islands, peaking at level 11 (31.6 meters per second) on Zhao Shu Island.
Due to the typhoon’s impact, parts of the sea around Hainan Province will face strong winds from October 26 to 29. The Xisha and Zhongsha Islands will experience intense rain and wind, while Hainan Island itself will also encounter severe weather conditions.
The Hainan Meteorological Department has issued a warning, emphasizing the need for increased management of fishing boats docked in harbors, protection measures against strong winds at ports, and securing vessels. They recommend the timely relocation of fishermen to the shore, as well as moving vulnerable populations away from makeshift shelters and construction sites. With prolonged high winds expected over the central South China Sea, authorities are urging for continued diligence in ensuring the safety of vessels and coastal tourism activities, as well as reinforcing facilities like fish farms and maritime tourism equipment.
