Kat Gal
Updated on: October 16, 2024 4:10 am GMT
As Taiwan prepares for the impact of Super Typhoon Krathon, the island finds itself facing a serious weather threat. This powerful storm, equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane, has already battered the northern Philippines, leading to severe flooding and evacuations across coastal communities.
Typhoon Krathon’s Path and Potential Impact
Krathon is currently located in the Bashi Channel, situated between Taiwan and the Philippines. By Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. local time, it was packing winds of 240 kph (150 mph), according to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC). The storm is expected to weaken slightly but will likely still pose significant threats as it moves toward Taiwan’s major port city of Kaohsiung.
- Projected Impact:
– Landfall expected between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning.
– Anticipated heavy rains and strong winds.
– The potential for storm surge in coastal areas.
Conditions in the Philippines
Before reaching Taiwan, Typhoon Krathon wreaked havoc in the Philippines. It has already:
- Affected nearly 23,000 families.
- Caused heavy rainfall, with 100-200mm (4-8 inches) recorded.
- Prompted evacuations from several northern islands.
The response from the Philippine National Disaster Agency is ongoing as officials assess the damage and aid those affected by the storm.
Taiwan’s Preparedness Measures
In light of the impending storm, Taiwan’s government is taking proactive measures to safeguard its citizens. On Tuesday, the island announced the closure of schools and offices across multiple counties. Additionally, military units have been placed on standby.
President Lai Ching-te expressed grave concern about the potential for “catastrophic damage” from the typhoon. He emphasized the importance of vigilance among residents, stating, “Typhoon Krathon has intensified into a strong typhoon with strong winds, heavy rain, and high storm surge.”
- Emergency Measures:
– Over 15,000 soldiers ready to assist in evacuations and rescues.
– Emergency responders in Kaohsiung have evacuated 1,690 people from high-risk areas.
– Transportation adjustments, with train services being suspended in certain regions.
Warnings and Advisories
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued comprehensive warnings due to the typhoon’s slow movement, which could lead to prolonged heavy rains in some areas. The warnings include:
- A land and sea alert for southern and eastern parts of Taiwan.
- Additional advisories for coastal communities regarding potential storm surges.
With Krathon’s winds expected to reach a maximum speed of 162 kph, authorities continue to monitor the situation.
Previous Typhoons and Vulnerabilities
This year, Taiwan has already dealt with another significant storm, Typhoon Gaemi, which occurred in July and resulted in the tragic loss of 11 lives. The island’s infrastructure is usually well-prepared for typhoons, but certain mountainous regions remain vulnerable to landslides due to heavy rainfall.
- Historical Context:
– Past typhoons illustrate Taiwan’s resilience but also highlight the ongoing risks.
– Continuous updates from the CWA and local authorities will be crucial as Krathon approaches.
Looking Ahead
With its projected path and intensity, Typhoon Krathon serves as a reminder of nature’s unpredictability. As the storm approaches, it is vital for residents to stay informed and heed evacuation orders if necessary.
As President Lai noted, “Everyone must be particularly vigilant.” The coordination between various governmental agencies and military units reflects Taiwan’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its people during this dangerous time.
Taiwan is getting ready for Super Typhoon Krathon, and officials are asking everyone to prepare. They expect the storm to bring strong winds and heavy rain, so they are putting safety plans in place to help reduce damage. Recent storms have shown how important it is for everyone to be ready and work together during tough weather.
