Typhoon Krathon has wreaked havoc in Taiwan region, resulting in two deaths and 102 injuries as of Wednesday evening, according to local emergency operation departments. Two people are also reported missing as the powerful storm continues its course.
Mudslide Alerts and Road Closures
The number of red alerts for mudslides in Taitung County and Pingtung County has surged to 44. Precautionary measures have led to the closure of 21 roads across the island, hindering transportation and emergency services.
Flight and Maritime Disruptions
The typhoon has caused significant disruptions to both air and sea travel. A total of 99 international and cross-strait flights are expected to be canceled, with all local flights grounded. Maritime transportation has also been severely affected, with four cross-strait routes and 30 voyages suspended, and all 10 routes and 131 voyages within the island canceled.
Widespread Power Outages
As of Wednesday evening, 58,109 households had experienced power outages, and 3,490 households remain without electricity. Restoration efforts are underway as relevant departments work tirelessly to restore power to affected areas.
Typhoon Krathon’s Path
According to China’s National Meteorological Center, Krathon was centered northeast of the South China Sea on Wednesday morning, approximately 125 kilometers southwest of Kaohsiung City in Taiwan. With maximum wind speeds near its center reaching 48 meters per second, equivalent to a level-15 gale, the typhoon poses a significant threat to the region.
Expected Landfall and Precautions
Typhoon Krathon is expected to move northeastward at 5 to 10 kilometers per hour and is forecast to make landfall on the southwestern coast of Taiwan between Wednesday night and Thursday morning. Residents are advised to stay indoors and heed warnings from local authorities.
Impact on Mainland China
East China’s Fujian Province has announced the suspension of most passenger ferry services due to storms triggered by Krathon, as reported by local maritime authorities. Precautionary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of residents and travelers in the affected areas.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
