Taiwan Mobilizes Troops Ahead of Powerful Typhoon Krathon

Taiwan mobilized nearly 40,000 troops as Typhoon Krathon approaches the southwest coast. The storm is expected to hit Kaohsiung as a category 4 typhoon, bringing high winds, flooding, and storm surges. Rescue efforts are underway for 19 sailors who abandoned ship due to the escalating conditions.

Taiwan mobilized nearly 40,000 troops on Tuesday to bolster rescue efforts as the powerful Typhoon Krathon approached its populous southwest coast. The typhoon is expected to bring a storm surge, prompting the coast guard to race in search of 19 sailors who abandoned ship. Taiwan frequently faces typhoons, but they usually strike the less populated east coast. This storm, however, is projected to make landfall on the island's flat western plain.

According to the Central Weather Administration (CWA), Krathon is forecast to strike the major port city of Kaohsiung on Wednesday morning before moving north-eastward into the East China Sea. Kaohsiung, home to 2.7 million people, has declared a holiday and urged residents to stay indoors as the category 4 storm approaches, according to Tropical Storm Risk.

Li Meng-hsiang, a CWA forecaster, indicated that the storm has reached its maximum intensity and could slightly weaken before making landfall. He warned of gusts exceeding 150 kph (93 mph) and potential flooding due to storm surges. Taiwan's defense ministry has more than 38,000 troops on standby, while Kaohsiung residents, like fisherman Chen Ming-huang, brace for the storm's impact. Meanwhile, the coast guard is rescuing 19 sailors from the cargo vessel Blue Lagoon, abandoned due to water in the engine room. Both domestic and international flights have been canceled, and public services are halted as the island readies itself.

(With inputs from agencies.)