FUZHOU, Aug. 25 (Xinhua) -- Fujian Province in east China raised its flood-control emergency response to Level II, the second highest, on Tuesday afternoon, while keeping a Level IV emergency response for typhoon damage prevention.
Persistent rainfall has drenched much of the province since Aug. 19, saturating soil and swelling rivers, the local flood control authority said. The conditions, triggered by a monsoon trough and Typhoon Gaenari, the 20th typhoon this year, have significantly raised the risk of disasters.
According to the provincial meteorological department, heavy to torrential rain is expected to lash large parts of the province through Tuesday. Meteorologists have warned of a high risk of secondary disasters, including river flooding, mountain torrents, landslides and mudslides, due to prolonged and intense rainfall.
As of Tuesday noon, 22 passenger ferry routes along Fujian's coast had been suspended and 41 offshore construction projects halted, said the Fujian Maritime Safety Administration. All trial sailing, scientific research, and wind power operation and maintenance activities involving provincial coastal vessels have been called off.
The local flood control authority has urged all localities and relevant departments to closely track Typhoon Saudel, the 18th typhoon of 2026, and the evolving rainfall. It called for thorough inspections in vulnerable areas and prompt evacuation of residents from high-risk zones to ensure public safety and protect property. ■
