Typhoon Haikui Strikes Taiwan, Leaves Thousands Without Power
In a rare occurrence, Typhoon Haikui made landfall in Taiwan, causing chaos and leaving thousands of homes without power. The southeast coastal township of Donghe was particularly hard-hit, with reports of two injuries and widespread power outages.
The typhoon’s wrath was felt when a tree toppled onto a van, trapping two people inside. Fortunately, both individuals were conscious and were quickly transported to the hospital for treatment. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that accompany a storm of this magnitude.
In response to the typhoon, authorities ordered the evacuation of more than 3,700 people from high-risk areas. The precautionary measure aimed to minimize casualties and ensure residents’ safety. The storm’s impact was felt across the country, as over 74,925 homes and businesses suffered power loss. However, efforts to restore electricity were successful for 42,702 locations by 6 p.m. local time.
Meanwhile, Taipei, the capital city, experienced heavy rainfall as the typhoon moved westwards with winds reaching speeds of up to 155 kilometers per hour. This marks the first direct hit by a typhoon in Taiwan in four years, and the eastern regions are bracing themselves for further heavy rainfall.
Meteorologists predict flash flooding and landslides due to the persistent downpour, especially in mountainous areas like Hualien county. Consequently, schools and work have been suspended in seven counties and cities across southern and eastern Taiwan. Additional areas have followed suit, prioritizing the safety of their residents amidst the ongoing weather threat.
The transportation sector has been greatly affected by the typhoon-induced disruptions. Numerous flights to and from Taiwan have experienced delays or cancellations as authorities navigate the challenging weather conditions.
Meanwhile, Typhoon Saola, which struck Hong Kong, resulted in 86 injuries and a slew of reports regarding fallen trees, flooding, and landslides. The region’s infrastructure and emergency response teams have been working diligently to address the aftermath of this destructive force of nature.
As the island nations grapple with the dual onslaught of Typhoon Haikui and Typhoon Saola, residents and authorities remain vigilant, preparing for potential consequences such as flooding and landslides. The ongoing storms emphasize the significance of disaster preparedness and the necessity of individual and collective efforts in mitigating their impact.
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