China issues red alert for ocean waves as Typhoon Nepartak approaches

BEIJING -- China's State Oceanic Administration (SOA) on Friday issued this year's first red alert for ocean waves as Typhoon Nepartak approaches the mainland.

The SOA estimated that from Friday night to Saturday, sea waves as high as nine meters will emerge in Taiwan Strait, while coastal waters near Fujian province will see waves as high as six meters.

The SOA also issued a yellow alert storm tides and estimated that the sea level off Fujian province will rise up to 150 centimeters.

Nepartak landed Taiwan Friday morning and reached the Taiwan Strait Friday afternoon. It is expected to land in Fujian province, probably in the area between Xiamen and Putian, around noon on Saturday.

The SOA warned ships to return to port and related departments to close beaches and entertainment facilities well in advance.