Taiwan's Heroic Mobilization as Typhoon Krathon Barrels Toward Coast

Taiwan has deployed nearly 40,000 troops to assist with rescue operations in anticipation of Typhoon Krathon hitting its southwest coast. The Category 4 storm threatens the densely populated city of Kaohsiung. Coastal residents are making extensive preparations, and the coast guard is racing to rescue 19 stranded sailors.

Taiwan mobilized almost 40,000 troops on Tuesday to enhance rescue efforts as the formidable Typhoon Krathon approaches its populous southwest coast. The coast guard is urgently searching for 19 sailors who abandoned ship.

Typically, typhoons impact Taiwan's sparsely populated east coast, but Krathon is set to strike the flat western plain. The storm will make landfall in Kaohsiung, a major port city, and move northeast across the island, emerging into the East China Sea, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA).

Home to 2.7 million people, Kaohsiung has declared a holiday, urging residents to stay home. Li Meng-hsiang from CWA warned of potential gusts exceeding 150 kph (93 mph), noting the risk of inland tides and flooding in coastal areas. More than 38,000 troops are on standby, and residents are bracing for impact.

Chen Ming-huang, a local fisherman, expressed concerns as he secured his boat. Concurrently, the coast guard dispatched a rescue boat after 19 sailors from the cargo vessel Blue Lagoon were forced to abandon ship offshore. In Kaohsiung, businesses have shuttered, and streets are deserted as locals prepare for the storm's arrival.

Resident Chen Mei-ling, recalling past typhoons, has readied emergency supplies. "It's a strong typhoon, and we are worried," she said.

(With inputs from agencies.)