Shanghai’s weather was already being affected by the giant typhoon on Thursday. Photo: IC Photo

The Bund in Shanghai on Thursday before Typhoon Lekima arrives. Photo: IC Photo

A woman battles strong winds ahead of Typhoon Lekima hitting Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. Photo: VCG

Workers reinforce trees in Hangzhou on Thursday to minimize the damage from the typhoon. Photo: VCG

A mooring rope is tightened to secure ships in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province. Photo: VCG

According to reports, around 9,000 ships have returned to shore to brace for the upcoming typhoon. Photo: IC Photo

Visitors wait in line to leave Mount Putuo, an island on China’s east coast, after the typhoon disrupted transport services. Photo: IC Photo

Fishing vessels moor at Wushi Bay in Taiwan on Wednesday. Photo: IC Photox