HZM Bridge passes typhoon's structural safety 'test'

The multibillion-dollar Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, set to open later this year, withstood the destructive force of Super Typhoon Mangkhut, one of the strongest storm systems this year. The typhoon made landfall in Taishan on Sept 16 at around 5 pm.

The record Force 16 gale swept past the Pearl River Delta, bringing fierce winds and intense rains.

The 34-mile bridge across the Lingding Sea -- the world's longest sea-crossing bridge -- withstood gusts of 198 kmph (123 mph). The bridge section, artificial islands, and subsea tunnel were all unaffected and major structures, traffic engineering, and auxiliary facilities remain in perfect condition, according to Duan Guoqin, HSE chief inspector of the HZMB Authority.

The bridge lit up the turbulent sea and sky with 1,280 lights at 6:30 pm.

The bridge is designed to last 120 years, withstand typhoons up to Gale Force 16 and resist the impact of a Magnitude-8 earthquake or a 300,000 metric-ton vessel, according to the official in charge of the project’s construction.

Bridge stands firmly in rough waters [Photo courtesy Zhuhai Daily]