Typhoon "Huajiasha" Disrupts Guangzhou Travel, Caution Urged for Canton Fair Attendees

Typhoon "Huajiasha" Disrupts Guangzhou Travel, Caution Urged for Canton Fair AttendeesTyphoon "Huajiasha", the strongest global storm this year, forces widespread travel suspensions and preparedness measures as it approaches Guangdong province.

GUANGZHOU, China—Typhoon "Huajiasha," the strongest global storm of 2025, is expected to make landfall along Guangdong's coast between Taishan and Zhanjiang this afternoon to evening, bringing extreme winds and torrential rainfall. The system, currently packing maximum sustained winds of 55 meters per second (198 km/h), has prompted the Guangdong Provincial Flood Control, Drought and Wind Prevention Headquarters to upgrade its emergency response to the highest level.

The typhoon's impact is already affecting transportation and logistics in the region, with potential disruptions for travelers and businesses, including attendees of the upcoming Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair). Authorities have initiated broad "Five Stops" measures—suspending classes, work, production, transport, and business operations—across 16 cities, including Guangzhou.1. Typhoon Status and Expected ImpactAs of 5:00 a.m. on September 24, the eye of Typhoon "Huajiasha" was located approximately 255 kilometers southeast of Yangjiang in the northern South China Sea. Classified as a super typhoon, it is moving west-northwest at about 20 km/h.

The storm is forecast to bring severe weather conditions to Guangzhou from September 23 to 25. The city is expected to experience heavy rain to torrential rain, with land gusts reaching Force 9-12 and gusts in port areas and high grounds reaching Force 13-17.

The typhoon's formation over exceptionally warm ocean waters (exceeding 29°C) has provided it with an extensive energy reservoir, contributing to its intensity. Meteorologists have noted similarities in its scale and trajectory to 2018's powerful Typhoon "Mangkhut".2. Transportation Disruptions and Canton Fair ConsiderationsThe typhoon has caused significant transportation disruptions that could affect travel plans for Canton Fair attendees:Rail Services: As of September 24, all high-speed and conventional train services within Guangdong province have been suspended. Railway authorities indicate services will gradually resume from September 25 based on improving conditions.Flights and Maritime Travel: Guangdong's maritime authority has suspended 121 passenger ferry routes. Port operations, including those in Hong Kong and Macao, have been affected, with the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge closing its main bridge and Zhuhai road port from September 23.While the Canton Fair is scheduled to occur in the coming weeks, authorities have extensive experience managing large-scale events during challenging conditions. During previous fairs, Guangzhou police implemented a three-tiered security perimeter around the exhibition complex to maintain order and safety.3. Preparatory Measures and Safety RecommendationsGuangzhou city has 1,570 emergency shelters ready, capable of accommodating up to 5.625 million people if needed. The provincial government has already coordinated the relocation of over 1 million residents from vulnerable areas.For Canton Fair attendees currently in or traveling to Guangzhou, authorities recommend:Monitor official updates regularly through reliable sources like the China Meteorological Administration and local emergency management departments.Adjust travel plans accordingly, anticipating continued disruptions through at least September 25.Prepare emergency supplies, including drinking water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and portable power banks.Secure accommodation by reinforcing windows with tape in a "米" pattern to improve wind resistance and moving outdoor items indoors.Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, particularly staying away from coastal areas, rivers, and advertising structures.4. Government and Emergency ResponseThe National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Commission has initiated a Level IV national disaster relief emergency response. Central government agencies have allocated 60,000 relief supplies to Guangdong, including tents, folding beds, and emergency lighting.

Guangdong's power grid company has mobilized 32,000 emergency repair personnel to address potential electricity outages. The provincial government has emphasized that protecting citizens' safety remains its top priority.The typhoon's impact on the region's infrastructure is already substantial, with transportation networks particularly affected. While the Canton Fair has historically operated smoothly under robust security and contingency planning, attendees should anticipate potential delays and plan accordingly.

Business travelers should monitor official announcements from both disaster management authorities and fair organizers for the latest guidance. The resilience of Guangzhou's infrastructure and the comprehensive emergency preparations undertaken by authorities are expected to mitigate the most severe impacts once conditions improve.