Typhoon Champi halts 56 ferry routes off Fujian, prompts relocation of 134,100 people

(ECNS) -- Typhoon Champi has brought winds of Force 8 or stronger (at least 62 kph, or 39 mph) to coastal areas of southeastern China's Fujian province, prompting the suspension of 56 passenger ferry routes and the relocation of 134,100 people from at-risk areas, authorities said Friday.

As of 11 a.m. Friday, 130 passenger vessels had suspended operations. The suspended routes included all four cross-Strait "mini three links" ferry routes between mainland Fujian and the nearby Taiwan-controlled islands of Kinmen and Matsu. Work had also halted at 111 water-based construction projects.

According to the Fujian Meteorological Observatory, winds of Force 9 to 11, with gusts of Force 11 to 13, were forecast over fishing grounds in eastern, central and southern Fujian and waters around the Diaoyu Islands. Other offshore areas and coastal waters were expected to see winds of Force 8 to 10, with gusts of Force 10 to 12.

All people aboard fishing vessels and on offshore aquaculture rafts in Fujian had been evacuated, authorities said. The Fujian Maritime Safety Administration also deployed rescue ships, patrol vessels and emergency tugboats in preparation for possible emergencies.