Taiwan Braces for Typhoon Krathon: West Coast Prepares for Impact

Taiwan is preparing for the arrival of Typhoon Krathon, set to hit the west coast with powerful winds and torrential rain. Authorities have issued warnings, canceled boats and some flights, and deployed thousands of soldiers and rubber boats in anticipation. The typhoon could intensify to Category 4 hurricane strength.

Taiwan issued a land warning on Monday ahead of Typhoon Krathon's arrival, which is expected to strengthen and lash the island's populous west coast with heavy rains and strong winds.

While most typhoons strike Taiwan's less populated east coast, Krathon is forecast to hit Kaohsiung, a major port city, early on Wednesday before moving northeast, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) said. It could reach Category 4 hurricane strength, with winds exceeding 220 kph (125 mph).

Gene Huang from the CWA warned of severe impacts and urged residents in the southwest to prepare for extreme winds surpassing 150 kmh (93 mph). Authorities have prepared over 1,000 rubber boats and 2,200 soldiers, with some domestic transport services already disrupted. International flights remain unaffected.

(With inputs from agencies.)