Bilis Wreaks Havoc in China by Helen McKenzie
Having swept through the Philippines and Taiwan last week, leaving a path of destruction in its wake, tropical storm Bilis hit China on Friday. The storm had briefly reached typhoon criteria, with winds in excess of 64 knots (74 mph), but despite weakening as it made landfall, it caused disaster for the country right the way through the weekend.
According to China Central Television, the storm has affected millions of residents, with 1.7 million evacuated in recent days and at least 188 people dead.
Flooding and landslides have been the main problem, with fourteen Fujian counties receiving more than 200mm (7.9 inches) of rain, and two counties recording in excess of 400mm (15.8 inches) since the storm hit.
Meteorologists for Guandong, one of the worst hit provinces, expect heavy rain or storms to continue for the new few days.
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