In brief
Typhoon Kong-rey, the largest typhoon to hit Taiwan in nearly three decades, made landfall on its eastern coast, prompting closures and evacuations as it injured over 70 and resulted in at least one fatality.
Typhoon Kong-rey, unexpectedly striking Taiwan late in the year, has created chaos as it made landfall on the island's eastern coast. Occurring around 13:40 local time (04:40 GMT), the storm has been designated as the largest typhoon to directly impact Taiwan in almost three decades. With winds in excess of 200km/h prior to landfall, Kong-rey exhibited characteristics akin to a Category 4 hurricane.In anticipation of the severe weather, schools and businesses closed across Taiwan, while residents stripped supermarkets in preparation for the storm. Widespread disruptions ensued with the cancellation of hundreds of flights and ferry services alongside the suspension of operations at Taiwan’s stock exchange. Reports indicate over 70 injuries from the typhoon, alongside one confirmed fatality—a 56-year-old woman who was killed by a falling tree.As of the evening, authorities reported that the storm had weakened to a "moderate typhoon" status. Nonetheless, it has left nearly half a million households without power, according to the Taiwan Power Company. In Hualien County, local officials stated they received continuous calls regarding emergencies from residents, but were impeded by dangerous winds and rainfall.This year's typhoon season has been unusual—typically ranging from July to September—but has already seen two significant storms in October, the other being super typhoon Krathon, which resulted in four fatalities and over 700 injuries. Local weather watchers noted the unprecedented occurrence, with one resident, aged 70, expressing surprise at experiencing a major typhoon so late in the season.Global sea surface temperatures have reportedly reached near-record levels since July, providing an influx of heat energy that can fuel destructive storms. Alongside fierce winds, the moisture brought on by such storms poses immense risks of excessive rainfall, leading to floods and landslides. In light of Typhoon Kong-rey, regions in eastern Taiwan are cautioned to expect rainfall amounts reaching up to 1,200mm from October 29 to November 1.In readiness for potential rescue operations, Taiwan's defense ministry has mobilized 36,000 soldiers, with around 8,600 residents promptly evacuated from areas more vulnerable to the storm. President Lai Ching-te, attending a briefing about the unfolding situation, has advised citizens to remain indoors and avoid dangerous locales, such as coastlines, during the tempest. Forecasts indicate that Kong-rey is projected to gradually weaken and exit Taiwan by Friday.
