Typhoon Saudel Hits China Travel: Flights and Ferries Grounded
Flights cancelled and ferries stopped—could your travel plans be next?
Typhoon Saudel slammed into eastern China on Friday, bringing strong winds and disrupting travel for thousands. The storm made landfall in Zhejiang province twice: first near Taizhou, then again near Wenzhou, with winds reaching 126 km/h. The National Meteorological Centre issued a red warning, the highest alert level.
For travelers, the impact was immediate. Ningbo Lishe International Airport stopped all flights Thursday night, and even after reopening Friday morning, dozens remained cancelled. Wenzhou, a busy private-enterprise hub, grounded 197 flights. Shanghai's ferry company suspended most routes, leaving only one river crossing open. Major airlines like Air China and China Southern have said passengers flying to or from affected cities between Thursday and Saturday can rebook for free or get full refunds.
This is the third typhoon to hit Zhejiang this year, matching a record from 2004. The US embassy in China warned American citizens to avoid coastal areas and keep track of local news. If you have upcoming plans in these regions, contact your airline or ferry operator before heading to the airport or port. The storm is expected to weaken, but disruptions may continue through the weekend.
- Typhoon Saudel hit Zhejiang twice, causing red-level warnings and winds up to 126 km/h.
- Over 200 flights were cancelled at airports in Ningbo and Wenzhou, plus most Shanghai ferries.
- Air China and China Southern are offering free rebooking or refunds for affected travel dates.
Why It Matters
If you're flying to or from Shanghai or Zhejiang this week, your trip could be delayed or cancelled—know your options now.