Higos, the seventh typhoon of the year, landed on coastal areas of Jinwan District at 6 am this morning, bringing strong winds and torrential rains to the city.

For now, operation of the Guangzhou-Zhuhai Intercity MRT has been suspended, as have all bus, tram, and ferry services in Zhuhai. Sixty-seven flights had been canceled by 6:50 am this morning, according to Zhuhai (Jinwan) Airport.

Meanwhile, all schools and workplaces are required to close today, along with citywide tourist attractions and scenic spots. Public activities have been stopped, and island ferry services suspended.

Typhoon Higos brings high winds and huge waves [Photo courtesy Guanhai App]

The Zhuhai Meteorological Observatory issued a typhoon red warning signal -- the highest of China's four-level warning system -- at 9:55 pm on Aug 18. The alert remains in force today.

The maximum wind speed near the center reached 35 m/s (level 12) when it landed. It is expected that the typhoon will continue to move northwestward and its intensity will gradually weaken. 

The Municipal Headquarters of Control of Flood, Drought & Wind announced Tuesday evening that Zhuhai had initiated the Level-1 Emergency Response signal and was in "defense readiness condition." Residents are being warned to stay indoors for safety during the extreme weather and to keep away from waterside areas, billboards, trees, power lines, and similar facilities.