A man fishes by the shore in Keelung, northeastern Taiwan, as Super Typhoon Kong-rey draws near, creating large waves on October 29, 2024. Getty Images
Authorities in Taiwan are urging residents along the eastern coast to prepare for the approaching Super Typhoon Kong-rey, which has gained strength after impacting the Philippines. The storm has rapidly intensified, reaching super-typhoon status with winds of 240 kilometers per hour (150 miles per hour), comparable to a Category 4 hurricane in the Atlantic.
As Kong-rey moves northwest across the Philippine Sea, it is expected to make landfall early Thursday in Taitung, a less populated area on Taiwan's southeastern coast known for its mountainous terrain. Meteorologist Chu Mei-lin from Taiwan’s weather agency highlighted in a press conference that as the typhoon continues its path, nearly the entire island will be within the storm's reach by tonight.
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) issued a sea warning on Tuesday as the storm approached, followed by a land warning on Wednesday for two southern counties expected to be affected by the storm’s outer bands. While predictions suggest that the storm may weaken slightly before hitting land, it is still expected to bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, storm surges, and the potential for landslides.
“We urge everyone to make preparations accordingly,” Chu warned, noting that waves could rise as high as eight meters when the typhoon makes landfall. Heavy rainfall is anticipated across Taiwan, including in the capital, Taipei.
In response to the impending storm, Taiwan's military has placed around 36,000 soldiers on standby to assist with rescue and relief operations, as stated by the Ministry of National Defense. Additionally, over 6,000 first responders are ready to support efforts as needed, according to the Central Emergency Operations Center. As of Wednesday, most flights and ferries in Taiwan were still operating normally, but authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
Taiwan has a strong history of responding effectively to major typhoons, although remote mountainous areas are particularly vulnerable to landslides. Earlier this month, Typhoon Krathon resulted in four fatalities due to severe rainfall in southern Taiwan. To mitigate risks, the county government of Green Island and Orchid Island announced the suspension of work and classes in preparation for the storm.
Meanwhile, northern regions of the Philippines’ main island of Luzon have been experiencing the outer bands of Kong-rey, known locally as Leon. Authorities in the Philippines have initiated evacuations and issued warnings following the recent devastation from Tropical Storm Trami, known as Kristine, which tragically claimed the lives of at least 130 people last week.
As Kong-rey continues its path towards Taiwan, authorities remain vigilant and emphasize the need for preparedness among residents.
