Workers driving forklifts on Monday rushed to repair a dike guarding a chemical plant breached by powerful waves triggered by an approaching tropical storm in northeast China over fears of a toxic chemical spill.

Waves as high as 20 meters, fueled by strong winds, broke the dike in Jinshan Industrial Zone of Dalian City, at about 10:30 a.m., threatening to hit the compound of Fujiahua chemical plant where toxic chemicals were held, said soldiers who participated in the rescue.

Residents in nearby areas are being evacuated.

The tropical storm Muifa, previously a typhoon, is expected to make a landing in Liaoning, where Dalian is located, Monday afternoon, according to local weather forecast reports.