Typhoon Molave, the 18th typhoon of this year, strengthened to a Category 3 storm on the morning of Oct. 27, leading to Hainan issuing a Level III storm alert. The typhoon is moving northwest at a speed of 25 - 30 km per hour and gradually strengthening. Typhoon Molave will pass the Xisha Islands in the South China Sea traveling towards the central coast of Vietnam on Oct. 27, and is expected to make landfall in the central coastal region of Vietnam on the morning of Oct. 28.

Hainan will be affected by Typhoon Molave and a drop in temperatures from Oct. 27 to Oct. 28, with heavy rainstorms expected across Hainan’s sea areas. Most areas of Hainan Island are expected to experience heavy rains and some areas will have local downpours.

All shipping across the Qiongzhou strait has been suspended at 5:00 p.m. on Oct. 27. All ports, shipping departments, and boats are required to strengthen preventive measures to ensure safety.