Typhoon Fengshen reaches China

After ravaging the Philippines, tropical storm Fengshen is now hammering southern China, closing schools, markets and businesses in Hong Kong and in the port city of Shenzhen.

Fengshen, which means "god of wind" in Chinese, was downgraded from a typhoon this week. Winds reached 23 meters per second, and by 6:30 this morning, more than 30 millimeters of rain had fallen in Shenzen.

Forecasters there have issued an yellow typhoon alert. Classes have been cancelled at all primary and middle schools in the city for the day. More heavy rain is expected in Shenzhen later today and tomorrow.

The Hong Kong Observatory has issued red rainstorm alert. More than 50 millimeters of rain has fallen in Hong Kong. Classes were cancelled and exams have been postponed. Residents are being told to stay home. Six out-going flights have been delayed and some flights were forced to land in Malaysia or Taipei.