In brief
The typhoon is the most significant to strike Taiwan in nearly three decades, causing widespread power outages, flight cancellations, and injuries.
Taiwan is experiencing an unprecedented weather event as Typhoon Kong-rey made landfall on its eastern shore, significantly impacting residents in a period typically marked by calmer weather. With winds surpassing 200 km/h, Kong-rey is classified as one of the most formidable typhoons to affect the island since 1996.As the storm approached, schools and businesses were shuttered, and supermarkets emptied in preparation for the onslaught. Authorities reported its arrival at approximately 13:40 local time (04:40 GMT). The fury of Kong-rey has already left more than 70 individuals injured and resulted in at least one fatality, a tragic incident involving a tree that fell onto a car.In terms of logistical disruption, hundreds of flights and ferry services have been suspended, and the Taiwan stock exchange has also closed its doors. The situation is compounded by widespread power outages affecting half a million homes as reported by Taiwan Power Company. Additionally, local officials in the eastern county of Hualien are struggling to respond to numerous emergency calls due to treacherous conditions.The timing of this storm is particularly unusual; historically, Taiwan’s typhoon season runs from July to September. However, this year has seen two colossal storms in October, with Kong-rey following shortly after the deadly super typhoon Krathon, which claimed four lives and left hundreds wounded. Local residents, including a septuagenarian from Hualien, are expressing disbelief at the late arrival of such an intense storm.Scientists link the rise in extreme weather patterns to record-high global ocean temperatures, which fuel stronger storm systems. The moisture carried by such storms poses significant threats including severe rain, flooding, and potential landslides. Forecasters anticipate that the eastern region of Taiwan could receive upwards of 1,200 mm of rainfall within just a few days.In preparation for the crisis, Taiwan's defense ministry has positioned around 36,000 soldiers for possible rescue missions, with over 8,600 individuals already evacuated from vulnerable zones. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has urged citizens to remain indoors and avoid perilous areas such as coastal regions.As Typhoon Kong-rey passes over Taiwan and gradually weakens, it is projected to exit the island by Friday, according to meteorological forecasts. The community is left in a state of recovery as it braces for the aftermath of this extraordinary natural disaster.
