Fujian recovers from Typhoon Sepat

Casualties from Typhoon Sepat, which hit Fujian province on August 19, were limited, although economic losses were high, the South China Morning Post reported. The typhoon first hit the mainland at Chongwu township in Quanzhou with a wind speed of 118.8 km/h. At least 20 people have died so far, according to AFP. Economic damage was estimated at US$145 million and some 1.57 million people in the province were affected by the typhoon. Expressways have reopened, and most flights have resumed after being suspended on August 18, the day before the typhoon. The low casualties were attributed to improved warning and evacuation efforts by the local government after Typhoon Saomai hit the province last August killing nearly 300 people and displacing 1 million.