BANGKOK (AP) – Typhoon Matmo has intensified as it approaches landfall in China, leading the government to mandate the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents from southern Guangdong province. This decision comes as the storm escalates in strength, posing significant risks to populated areas.

According to the National Meteorological Center of China, Typhoon Matmo reached maximum sustained wind speeds of 151 kph (94 mph) early Sunday morning. The weather authority has issued a red level typhoon warning, which is the highest alert level in their system, indicating severe weather conditions are imminent.

In response to the approaching storm, Hainan province has taken precautionary measures by canceling all flights and suspending public transportation, along with shutting down businesses. These actions began on Saturday in preparation for the anticipated impact of the typhoon.

In Guangdong province, particularly in its southwestern regions that are expected to bear the brunt of the storm, official media outlet The Paper reported that the evacuation of 151,000 individuals is now underway. Although the storm is not projected to make direct landfall in Macau, the local government has opted to cancel classes and all tutoring sessions as a precaution against adverse weather conditions.

Weather authorities have also issued warnings regarding potential heavy rainfall, with estimates suggesting that some areas could receive between 100 to 249 mm (3.93 to 9.8 inches) of rain. Such significant precipitation could lead to flooding and other complications in the region.

As Typhoon Matmo continues on its course, it is expected to move westward and north toward northern Vietnam, as well as China’s Yunnan province. Residents in these regions are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for possible impacts from the storm's trajectory.