Typhoon Rips Roofs Off Buildings and Floods Southern China

1. Article summary

Typhoon Noul (Hongxia), the strongest typhoon to make landfall in China this year, has caused widespread disruption across Guangdong Province and neighbouring Hong Kong. More than 715,000 people were evacuated, over 1,800 flights were cancelled or delayed, and transport networks experienced significant interruptions as destructive winds and torrential rain swept through the region.

Authorities suspended rail services, partially closed metro lines, ports and expressways, while the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge temporarily ceased operations. Although the storm has weakened since making landfall, heavy rainfall and flash flood warnings remain in place, with recovery efforts continuing across one of China's busiest manufacturing and export regions.

2. What shippers should consider

• Expect potential delays for cargo moving through Guangdong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Hong Kong as transport networks recover.
• Monitor vessel schedules, airline updates and port operations, as weather-related disruptions may continue even after the typhoon has passed.
• Confirm production and dispatch schedules with suppliers, particularly for shipments originating in southern China.
• Allow additional lead time for road transport, container collections and deliveries due to flooding, debris removal and infrastructure inspections.
• Stay in close contact with your freight forwarder to identify alternative routing or revised shipment schedules where required.

3. Moving forward

Severe weather remains one of the most significant risks to supply chain continuity across Asia Pacific. Businesses sourcing from southern China should continue monitoring operational updates from carriers, ports and logistics providers, while building flexibility into transport plans to minimise the impact of weather-related disruptions.

For information specific to your freight, customs or supply chain requirements, reach out to United Carriers to discuss what this may mean for your situation.