Typhoon Kong-rey Batter Taiwan: Closures and Precautions

Typhoon Kong-rey prompted school and office closures in Taiwan due to its strong winds and heavy rain. Expected to make landfall on Thursday, it reached speeds of 191 kph with gusts up to 234 kph. Despite flooding in some areas, no major damage or casualties have been reported.

In Taiwan, a powerful typhoon named Kong-rey has led to widespread closures of schools and offices, particularly in the eastern and northern regions of the island. The typhoon, which struck with winds reaching 191 kilometers per hour and gusts up to 234 kilometers per hour, inundated parts of Yilan and Hualien counties.

Ahead of its landfall, anticipated by Thursday evening, local farmers preemptively harvested crops to minimize losses from the impending severe weather. While significant flooding did occur, Taiwan has yet to report any casualties or substantial property damage.

In Taipei, the capital city, citizens experienced intense rainfall and strong winds, resulting in the suspension of many public services. Meanwhile, China's usual military presence in the region reduced significantly, as only eight aircraft were detected around Taiwan during this period, according to the Taiwanese Defense Ministry.

(With inputs from agencies.)