China: 4 killed as Typhoon Mujigae wreaks havoc

Typhoon Mujigae, the 22nd typhoon of the year, has wreaked havoc in south China, killing at least four people in Guangdong Province. The typhoon, bringing gales and downpours, arrived in the coastal city of Zhanjiang at 2pm on 4 October, packing winds of up to 111mph.

Some 35 cases of boat stranding and anchor dragging had been reported off the waters of Zhanjiang, with 117 fishermen rescued from danger, one dead and 16 still missing. At about 9pm, the typhoon caused widespread blackouts in Zhanjiang and a water supply crisis in many areas in the province.

The typhoon brought a violent tornado to the city of Foshan, killing three people and injuring another 80. It is now forecast to move north-west with diminishing strength.

According to the Civil Affairs Department of Guangxi, the typhoon had affected more than 870,000 people, forcing 50,000 to be relocated. The National Meteorological Centre issued blue warnings on 5 October for the typhoon and heavy downpours.