A powerful typhoon, named Kong-rey, made landfall in Taiwan on Thursday, bringing high winds and floods to much of the island's east coast and northern areas. The storm had previously passed the northern Philippines, where villagers in northern provinces had evacuated to shelters in anticipation of its impact.
Upon hitting Taiwan, Typhoon Kong-rey reached wind speeds of 184 kilometers per hour, with gusts of up to 227 kph, causing significant damage. Flights and train services were suspended, and 8,600 people were relocated to shelters for safety.
Authorities in Taiwan reported one fatality and 73 injuries as a result of the storm. The death occurred when a tree fell on a vehicle. Efforts were also underway to locate two Czech tourists who had been hiking in Hualien's Tarako National Park when the storm hit.
The capital city, Taipei, experienced high winds and heavy rains, leading to the closure of offices and schools across the island. A Chinese-registered freighter off the north coast had to be towed away after being abandoned by its crew in heavy seas.
Despite the destructive force of Typhoon Kong-rey, the Philippines weather agency had warned of potential damage to roofs and farmland but reported no immediate casualties. The storm is the 12th weather disturbance to affect the Philippine archipelago this year, adding to the challenges faced by the nation still recovering from a recent deadly storm.
China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, reduced its patrols around the island during the storm. Taiwan's Defense Ministry reported a decrease in Chinese military activity in the region during the typhoon's passage.
