In brief
Kong-rey, a Category 3 typhoon, is the strongest to impact Taiwan in almost three decades, with its violent winds and heavy rains resulting in numerous injuries and at least one fatality.
As Typhoon Kong-rey made landfall in Taiwan on Thursday afternoon, it unleashed fierce winds and torrential rain, prompting widespread emergency measures. The Central Weather Administration reported that Kong-rey has sustained winds of around 126 miles per hour, comparable to a strong Category 3 hurricane, marking it as the most powerful storm to hit the island in 28 years.In response to the approaching storm, authorities took decisive action by closing schools, offices, and financial markets, and conducted the evacuation of over 9,600 residents from 13 different cities and counties as a precautionary measure. The Taiwan military was mobilized, and hundreds of flights were grounded, leading to chaos at numerous airports.As of Thursday afternoon, injuries were reported across Taiwan, with the national fire agency indicating that at least 73 people had been affected by the storm's violent conditions. Tragically, a 56-year-old woman was killed when a tree fell onto her truck in central Taiwan.Adverse weather advisories were issued for the whole island, with warnings for extremely heavy rain forecasted, especially in mountainous regions where amounts nearing four feet were expected. A local resident, Huang Shu-ting, expressed frustration, stating, "My plans are in chaos" while she stocked up on supplies at a Taipei supermarket.As the storm continues, citizens are being urged to take precautions and stay informed about emerging developments and updates on the situation.
