What's Happening?
Hainan Island, a popular resort destination in China, has ordered the evacuation of over 20,000 people as Typhoon Kajiki approaches. The typhoon, with winds equivalent to a Category 2 hurricane, has prompted the closure of businesses and suspension of public transportation in Sanya, a city known for its beachfront resorts. The typhoon is expected to either make landfall or pass near Hainan, posing a significant threat to the region.
Why It's Important?
The evacuation and closures highlight the severe impact of Typhoon Kajiki on Hainan's tourism industry, which attracted over 97 million visitors in 2024. The disruption could lead to significant economic losses for local businesses reliant on tourism. The situation underscores the vulnerability of coastal regions to extreme weather events, emphasizing the need for robust disaster preparedness and response strategies. The typhoon's impact could also affect travel plans and safety for both residents and tourists.
