Typhoon Krathon Strikes: Taiwan Braces, Philippines Recovers

Taiwan closed schools and offices, evacuated hundreds, and mobilized troops ahead of Typhoon Krathon, expected to hit its western coast. The strong typhoon has already displaced thousands in the Philippines, causing widespread damage. No immediate casualties have been reported, but one person in the Philippines was electrocuted.

Taiwan has taken significant measures, including closing schools, offices, and evacuating hundreds, to prepare for the arrival of Typhoon Krathon, expected to strike the western coast. More than 500 individuals were evacuated from landslide-prone mountainous areas, and nearly 40,000 troops have been mobilized for rescue operations.

According to the Central Weather Administration, Typhoon Krathon will hit the major port city of Kaohsiung on Wednesday morning, then travel across Taiwan towards the East China Sea. Kaohsiung, with a population of 2.7 million, has seen store closures and heavy rainfall forecasts. The typhoon has a maximum sustained wind speed of 198 kph, with gusts up to 245 kph.

In the northern Philippines, where the typhoon had previously struck, nearly 2,000 people were displaced. The storm caused significant damage by blowing away roofs, toppling trees, and flooding areas. No immediate casualties have been reported, although a motorcyclist was electrocuted by a downed power line in Santa Ana, Cagayan province.

(With inputs from agencies.)