Typhoon Kong-rey, the 21st typhoon of the year, made landfall in southeastern Taitung County of China’s Taiwan region at around 2 p.m. on Thursday, resulting in three deaths and leaving dozens injured.
The eastern counties of Hualien and Taitung experienced strong winds and torrential rain throughout the day. Streets were flooded, trees uprooted, and power lines damaged, causing widespread power outages. Due to severe weather conditions, work and school were suspended across the island, as authorities urged residents to remain indoors and stay safe.
“The wind was so strong that we could barely stand,” said a resident of Taitung. “I’ve never seen anything like this before.”
The typhoon has also caused massive disruptions to travel, with most trains, flights, and ferries canceled. Thousands of travelers were stranded as transportation services were halted for safety reasons.
According to the National Meteorological Center, Typhoon Kong-rey is gradually shifting northeast toward Fujian and Zhejiang provinces, where it could make landfall along the coasts. Several coastal provinces in China have launched emergency response measures, including mass evacuations and the suspension of train and ferry services.
Local authorities in Fujian and Zhejiang have issued warnings for potential flooding and landslides. Emergency teams have been mobilized to assist with evacuations and to prepare for the typhoon’s impact.
The National Meteorological Center advised residents in the affected areas to take precautionary measures and stay updated on weather reports.
As Typhoon Kong-rey continues its path, communities brace for further challenges. The priority remains ensuring the safety of residents and minimizing potential damages.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
