Typhoon Khanun, a powerful and slow-moving storm categorized as the second-strongest typhoon level, approached northern Taiwan, authorities took swift action, imposing shutdowns and cancellations to protect lives and property. With maximum winds reaching 198 kph (123 mph), Taiwan’s weather bureau issued warnings of floods and high winds, urging residents to remain vigilant.
As of 9:15 A.M. Taipei time (0115 GMT), the eye of Typhoon Khanun has positioned approximately 360 km off Taipei in the East China Sea, inching its way westward at around 5 kph. Meteorologists had anticipated that the storm would pass close to Taiwan’s northern coast later in the day, followed by a significant turn to the northeast on Friday. In its wake, the storm threatened to bring total rainfall of up to 0.6 meters (2 feet) in the mountainous central region and 0.3 meters of rain near Taipei.
Typhoon path Explained
To ensure the safety of the public, authorities in northern cities, including the capital Taipei, acted promptly by shutting down businesses and schools. The closure of Taiwan’s stock and foreign exchange markets for the day was a precautionary measure to avoid potential financial risks. The impact of the approaching typhoon was also felt on the transportation front, with nearly 40 international flights being canceled. Moreover, all domestic ferry lines suspended their services until the further notice.
In Taipei, a bustling metropolis that heavily relies on its subway system, authorities reduced subway services as a precautionary measure to protect commuters and transportation infrastructure. In addition, hundreds of soldiers were placed on standby in nearby cities, prepared to respond to potential disasters and assist in relief efforts if required.
Typhoon Khanun’s path of destruction was not limited to Taiwan alone. The storm had already taken a toll on Japan’s Okinawa, a popular tourist destination, earlier in the week. Okinawa suffered significant damage, with the storm knocking out electricity to over 200,000 households and claiming one life.
Typhoon Khanun’s approach comes just a week after Typhoon Doksuri wreaked havoc in Taiwan’s southern regions, leaving a trail of destruction with heavy rains and strong winds. The back-to-back occurrence of these powerful storms has left residents and authorities grappling with the challenges of disaster management and recovery.
The authorities have been issuing continuous safety advisories, urging residents to remain indoors during the peak of the storm, avoid flood-prone areas, and take necessary precautions to protect their property and personal belongings. The importance of adhering to these guidelines cannot be overstated, as they play a vital role in minimizing potential risks during the typhoon’s impact.
As Typhoon Khanun inches closer to Taiwan’s shores, rescue and relief teams are on high alert, ready to deploy promptly to affected areas should the situation demand it. The collective efforts of the government, emergency services, and citizens play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of this natural disaster.
While the immediate focus remains on safeguarding lives and property, authorities also emphasize the need for long-term preparedness. With climate patterns becoming more unpredictable, Taiwan’s disaster management strategies must continually evolve to effectively mitigate the effects of future storms.
Typhoon Khanun’s approach has necessitated widespread shutdowns and cancellations in northern Taiwan. As the storm poses a significant threat with its strong winds and heavy rainfall, the region remains on high alert. The well-coordinated efforts of the government and the public will determine the extent of the impact and the community’s ability to bounce back from this natural disaster. Residents are urged to stay informed, exercise caution, and support one another during these challenging times. Together, Taiwan can weather the storm and emerge stronger in its aftermath.
