In a tumultuous turn of events, Typhoon Khanun, classified as the second strongest level of typhoon by Taiwan’s meteorological authorities, has plunged Northern Taiwan into chaos. As the slow-moving typhoon edges closer to the island’s northeastern coastline, the region is grappling with intensified flood and strong wind alerts.
The impact has been swift and severe:
🌧️ Flood and Rain Warnings: The forecast predicts staggering rainfall, with estimates of up to 0.6 meters of rainfall in the mountainous central regions and 0.3 meters near Taipei. Residents are bracing for potential landslides and waterlogging.
💨 Destructive Winds: With maximum wind speeds reaching a formidable 198 km/h, the typhoon’s powerful gusts have prompted authorities to issue strong warnings, resulting in widespread closures.
🏢 Businesses and Schools Shut Down: Northern Taiwan, including the bustling capital Taipei, has declared a temporary halt to businesses and schools. Streets that were once bustling now lie deserted as residents heed safety precautions.
🛫 Flight Chaos: The region’s airports are grappling with the fallout as more than 110 international and domestic flights have been axed. Travel plans are in disarray as airlines grapple with the mounting challenges posed by the storm.
⛴️ Ferry Services Suspended: Domestic ferry services have been suspended in the face of treacherous sea conditions, further exacerbating the transport turmoil.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and heed safety advisories, as the typhoon’s trajectory is expected to take a sharp turn towards the northeast. The coming hours are crucial, as Northern Taiwan continues to grapple with the unrelenting fury of Typhoon Khanun.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds.
