Hong Kong braces for Super Typhoon Saola

Tens of millions of people across southern China hunkered down Friday as Super Typhoon Saola swept towards the megacities of Hong Kong and Shenzhen, forcing the cancellations of hundreds of flights, shutting business and closing schools.

Packing sustained wind speeds at 210 kilometers per hour as it moved towards Hong Kong, Saola could be one of the most powerful typhoons to hit Guangdong if it makes landfall in the province. The neighboring Shenzhen in Guangdong announced the suspension of work, businesses and market activity from 4 pm, while transportation will be halted in the evening.

The city will open all shelters for the public to take refuge." Authorities had already issued the highest typhoon warning for the storm, which Chinese state media said would make landfall "in the coastal areas stretching from Huilai to Hong Kong" on Friday afternoon or evening.