Shanghai Prepares for Typhoon Bebinca as Strongest Storm Since 1949 Approaches

16 Sep Shanghai Prepares for Typhoon Bebinca as Strongest Storm Since 1949 Approaches

Shanghai has halted transportation services, recalled ships, and closed major tourist attractions, including Shanghai Disney Resort, as it braces for Typhoon Bebinca. This Category 1 storm could become the most powerful tropical cyclone to hit the financial hub since 1949.

Packing winds of 144 kph (89 mph), Bebinca is expected to make landfall on China’s eastern coast after midnight on Monday. The China Meteorological Administration issued a red alert, warning of heavy rains and gales across eastern China.

Flights at Shanghai’s airports will be cancelled starting at 8 p.m. local time on Sunday, with railway services and ferries also suspended. Major tourist spots, including Shanghai Disney Resort and Jinjiang Amusement Park, have been closed as a precaution.

Though Shanghai typically avoids the brunt of strong typhoons, authorities are not taking chances with Bebinca. The storm’s arrival coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival, a three-day holiday, adding to the disruption for travelers.

The Ministry of Water Resources has issued a Level-IV emergency response for potential flooding across Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui provinces.