Authorities have evacuated more than 20,000 people and suspended rail services as Typhoon Noul approaches southern China, with flight cancellations announced in the financial hub of Hong Kong.

Forecaster says hot, sunny weather up to 34 degrees on Friday, with winds strengthening and showers increasing on Saturday as Typhoon Noul nears.

Typhoon Noul is expected to bring winds and heavy rain to southern China, including Hong Kong, over the weekend.

Typhoon Noul is battering southern China and Hong Kong with winds and heavy rain