Typhoon Matmo Batters Southern China Forcing 350,000 Evacuations Amid Peak Holiday

Typhoon Matmo, the 21st typhoon of the year, made landfall on China's southern coast, particularly impacting Guangdong and Hainan provinces, with sustained winds of around 94 mph and heavy rainfall leading to flooding risks. Authorities evacuated approximately 350,000 people combined from Hainan and Guangdong, suspended ferry services, flights, rail operations, and closed businesses and schools to mitigate the storm's effects. The typhoon caused significant disruption during China's peak holiday season, with sea levels rising and transportation services halted in several coastal cities. As Matmo moves inland toward Vietnam and Yunnan province, it is expected to weaken but continue bringing heavy rains that could cause flooding and landslides. The storm comes amid China's ongoing challenges with climate change, as it remains the largest greenhouse gas emitter while also advancing renewable energy goals. Preparations and evacuations across southern China highlight the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in the region.