Typhoon Kong-rey Strikes Taiwan with Devastating Impact

Typhoon Kong-rey, the largest storm to hit Taiwan in nearly 30 years, made landfall on the east coast, causing the cancellation of hundreds of flights and power outages in half a million homes. The storm weakened slightly overnight but remains powerful, prompting safety warnings and evacuation efforts.

Typhoon Kong-rey made a significant impact as it hit Taiwan's east coast on Thursday, marking the largest storm to affect the island in almost three decades. The powerful typhoon resulted in the closure of financial markets, widespread flight cancellations, and interruptions in rail services, leaving nearly half a million homes without power, according to government reports.

The storm targeted the sparsely populated Taitung county, unleashing strong winds and heavy rain across the island. Taiwan's Central Weather Administration reported that, although slightly weakened overnight, Kong-rey maintained the strength of a Category 4 hurricane, with wind speeds exceeding 250 kph. Residents are advised to stay indoors as a safety measure.

Authorities remain vigilant as efforts focus on preventing an oil spill from a stranded Chinese cargo ship. With more than 36,000 troops ready to assist, evacuation procedures continue, and Taiwan's major semiconductor manufacturer, TSMC, has implemented precautionary measures to minimize operational disruptions.

(With inputs from agencies.)