Shenzhen issues first typhoon warning of 2026 as tropical depression approaches

Shenzhen issued its first typhoon warning of 2026 this morning after a tropical depression entered the city's 800-kilometer typhoon defense zone, prompting authorities to activate early preparedness measures.

The Shenzhen Meteorological Bureau issued a white typhoon warning signal for the entire city at 9 a.m.. A separate white warning also remains in effect for the Shenshan Special Cooperation Zone and its adjacent waters, where forecasters expect periods of strong winds and rain within the next 48 hours.

The bureau said the tropical depression had entered Shenzhen's 800-kilometer defense zone and is forecast to move toward waters near Hainan Island while gradually strengthening.

A forecast track map shows a tropical depression over the northern South China Sea expected to strengthen as it moves west toward Hainan Island and southern China as of 8 a.m. July 2. Courtesy of National Meteorological Center 

According to the China Meteorological Administration's National Meteorological Center, the system was located about 380 kilometers east-southeast of Wanning in China's southern island province of Hainan at 8 a.m. today. It was packing maximum sustained winds of 15 meters per second, or about 54 kph.

Forecasters said the system is expected to move west at 15 to 20 kph while continuing to intensify.

This forecast graphic shows the projected track and 96-hour probability area for a tropical depression in the northern South China Sea as of 8 a.m. July 2. Courtesy of National Meteorological Center 

The Shenzhen Meteorological Bureau said the white warning signal — the lowest level in its five-tier typhoon warning system — does not mean severe weather is imminent. Instead, it serves as an early advisory that a tropical cyclone could affect the city within 48 hours, urging residents to monitor official forecasts and follow any precautionary measures.

Under the warning, ports, maritime facilities and shipping operators have been advised to activate typhoon contingency plans, while people working at sea should prepare to seek shelter if necessary. Government agencies have also been instructed to implement emergency response measures in accordance with established typhoon response plans.

The bureau said it will continue monitoring the storm and issue updated forecasts and warnings as necessary.