Taiwan is on high alert for the landing of Usagi, possibly the most powerful typhoon of 2013.

China Central Meteorological Sation has issued its highest alert and says the typhoon is 177 kilometers southeast of Taiwan. It is moving towards Taiwan with a wind speed of up to 201 kilometers per hour. Taiwan is expected to see strong gales and rainstorms over the weekend.

Shipping and flights have been suspended in cities in the south east of the island. Meanwhile, Taiwan authorities have established a 24 hour emergency response center. The tropical hurricane is expected to hit the Chinese mainland Sunday afternoon. East China's Zhejiang, Fujian and southern China's Guangdong are also expected to see heavy rains. China's disaster reduction authority is preparing for emergencies.