Travel Chaos in China as Typhoon Matmo Forces Shutdowns of Airports, Rail Services, and Popular Tourist Destinations During National Day

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As one of the most anticipated times for domestic tourism, China’s National Day holiday period is a time when millions of citizens flock to popular vacation spots, including the tropical haven of Hainan Island. However, this year, a powerful weather event, Typhoon Matmo, has created massive disruptions across the country. Expected to make landfall on Sunday morning, the typhoon has forced authorities to cancel flights, suspend public transportation, and close businesses across Southern China, particularly in the Hainan and Guangdong provinces. With winds reaching up to 160 km/h (100 mph) and heavy rains predicted, the storm has caused widespread concern among travelers and residents alike.

This report outlines the impact of Typhoon Matmo on the tourism industry, travel infrastructure, and local businesses in China, with a special focus on the affected regions.

Typhoon Matmo Disrupts National Day Holiday Travel

Affected Areas:

• Hainan Province (Haikou and Sanya)
• Guangdong Province
• Yunnan Province
• Guangxi Region

Key Events and Disruptions:

• Flight Cancellations: Meilan International Airport in Haikou has suspended all flights starting at 11 pm on Saturday, a significant disruption during the National Day holiday travel period.
• School and Business Closures: In Haikou, schools, public transportation, and construction work have been suspended. Business operations will also be halted.
• Typhoon Response: Local authorities in Hainan and Guangdong have raised their emergency typhoon response levels, warning the public of flash floods and landslides.
• Infrastructure Shutdown: In addition to airport closures, many rail services have been canceled, and fishing boats have been ordered back to port.

Typhoon Matmo has created major challenges for travelers planning to visit popular tourist destinations like Hainan Island. Known for its tropical beaches, luxury resorts, and picturesque landscapes, Hainan is a major draw for both domestic and international tourists. The ongoing storm and its expected effects on the island’s infrastructure will lead to widespread disruptions, forcing many tourists to cancel or delay their plans.

National Day Holiday Travel Plans Impacted

Travel and Tourism During the Typhoon:

• Hainan Island’s Popularity: During the National Day period, Hainan is typically bustling with tourists. As the most well-known tourist destination in China for beach vacations, its resorts in Sanya and Haikou attract visitors for their crystal-clear waters and tropical climate.
• Airports and Rail Services Affected: With the closure of Meilan International Airport and the cancellation of rail services, travelers face significant delays. Authorities have also canceled several planned cruises and ferry services in the region.
• Impact on Domestic Tourism: Many domestic tourists, who would otherwise flock to the island for a getaway, have now been forced to reconsider their travel plans. Some have opted to visit alternative destinations that are less affected by the storm.

Why Hainan?
Hainan, often referred to as “China’s Hawaii,” boasts beautiful white sand beaches, luxury resorts, and a diverse cultural heritage. It is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offers a wide array of outdoor activities such as hiking, scuba diving, and water sports. However, the island’s popularity means it is often hit hard during major weather events like Typhoon Matmo, as it is located on the southernmost tip of the country.

The Storm’s Widespread Effects on Southern China

While Hainan faces the brunt of the storm, other regions like Guangdong, Yunnan, and Guangxi are also expected to feel significant effects. The intensity of the storm will lead to flooding in low-lying areas, potentially causing disruption to the daily lives of locals and tourists alike.

Guangdong Province:

• Key Cities Affected: Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Zhuhai. These cities are some of China’s most populous and industrialized regions. Typhoon Matmo is expected to bring heavy rain and gusty winds, leading to potential flooding and transportation disruptions.
• Impact on Local Economy: The economic activity in Guangdong, one of the richest provinces in China, may be affected as businesses, especially those in the tourism and hospitality sectors, are forced to close temporarily. Tourism-based businesses, including hotels, resorts, and tour operators, may experience a sharp decline in revenue.

Guangxi and Yunnan:

• Potential Flash Floods: Both regions are highly susceptible to flash floods and landslides, with Matmo predicted to bring several days of rain. The heavy downpours will affect transportation and accessibility to many natural attractions in the region.

What Travelers Can Expect in the Coming Days

Typhoon-Ready Travel Plans:

1. Flight Disruptions: Travelers should check with airlines for any cancellations and consider rescheduling their flights. The closure of Meilan International Airport and other regional airports will cause delays, and travelers should remain informed of flight status.
2. Accommodation Issues: Many hotels and resorts in affected regions will either close temporarily or operate under restricted conditions. Visitors may find it difficult to secure accommodations in popular areas like Haikou or Sanya.
3. Rail and Bus Cancellations: With train services suspended in several southern provinces, including Guangdong, passengers should look for alternative means of transport such as high-speed trains and buses that are still operating.

Precautions for Tourists:

• Tourists are advised to avoid traveling during the storm’s peak, as roads and infrastructure may become hazardous.
• It’s recommended to stay updated on weather forecasts and follow local authorities’ instructions regarding evacuation routes and safety measures.
• Visitors should also take note of the closing of tourist attractions and ensure that their travel itinerary allows for flexibility in case of sudden changes.

The Broader Impact on the Chinese Tourism Industry

Typhoon Matmo’s disruption comes during a critical period for the tourism industry in China. The National Day holiday marks a significant portion of the year’s travel activity, especially within domestic tourism. In 2025, the National Day holiday was expected to attract over 630,000 visitors to Hainan alone, making it one of the busiest travel periods of the year. However, the widespread impact of the typhoon on the region’s infrastructure could affect not only local businesses but also long-term tourism trends.

For the Chinese government, the recovery efforts will focus on restoring services quickly, ensuring that affected areas are rebuilt in time for future holiday periods. The country’s tourism industry, one of the most influential sectors in its economy, may need to adjust strategies to cope with the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters.

Conclusion: Preparing for Typhoon Matmo’s Aftermath

The ongoing Typhoon Matmo serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of even the most popular tourist destinations to unpredictable natural events. While the tourism sector in Hainan and Guangdong provinces faces immediate setbacks, the broader Chinese economy and its tourism infrastructure will likely rebound once the storm passes. As China continues to cope with the challenges brought on by natural disasters, travelers can expect more advanced systems for crisis management, improved evacuation protocols, and faster recovery times in the future.

In the meantime, tourists are encouraged to stay informed, exercise caution, and consider adjusting travel plans to avoid the worst impacts of Typhoon Matmo.