Typhoon Saudel made its third landfall on China’s east coast on Thursday, bringing torrential rain to Fujian after days of severe flooding. More than 83,000 people were evacuated in Fujian, while flash floods had trapped more than 2,500 teachers and students in Zhejiang a day earlier.
Saudel, the 18th typhoon of 2026 in the region, came ashore in Zhangpu County, Fujian, at around 6:30 a.m. local time on September 3. The provincial meteorological observatory reported maximum sustained winds of 23 metres per second near the storm’s centre at landfall.
More than 83,000 people moved to safety
Authorities in Fujian had evacuated more than 83,000 residents from risk areas by Thursday morning. Work, business activity and classes were suspended in several affected cities, while ferry services, construction sites and tourist attractions were also closed as the storm moved inland.
Heavy to torrential rain is expected to continue across much of Fujian and parts of Guangdong, Jiangxi and Hunan as the weakening system tracks westward.
Flash flooding had already hit Zhejiang
Before the latest landfall, extreme rainfall linked to Saudel caused serious flooding in neighbouring Zhejiang. Reuters reported that more than 2,500 teachers and students were trapped inside a school compound in Wenzhou after flash floods inundated the low-lying area. Drones were used to deliver food and drinking water.
In Fujian’s Fuding area, floodwater submerged vehicles and swept debris through low-lying streets. Provincial authorities raised the flood-control emergency response as persistent rainfall increased the risk of further flooding and secondary hazards.
Flood risk remains the main concern
Although Saudel is forecast to weaken as it moves west, the rainfall threat does not end immediately with landfall. Saturated ground, swollen rivers and continuing downpours can keep flood and landslide risks elevated after the strongest winds have eased.
Local emergency instructions and official meteorological warnings remain decisive for residents in affected areas. WeatherToni International will treat the storm as an active weather event while heavy rain and flood impacts continue.