Taiwan Braces for Historic Impact of Typhoon Krathon

Taiwan warns residents as Typhoon Krathon, a Category 4 hurricane equivalent, approaches. Expected to hit Kaohsiung and then cross Taiwan, bringing torrential rain and strong winds. With unusual movement and intensity, preparations include evacuations and military readiness. Previous typhoon Gaemi killed 11 in July.

Taiwan issued a warning on Monday as Typhoon Krathon, now a Category 4 hurricane equivalent, approaches the island. Expected to impact Kaohsiung, the storm is forecast to traverse Taiwan, bringing heavy rain and powerful winds, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) reported.

Krathon's winds exceed 210 kph, potentially causing unprecedented disasters as it crosses Taiwan. 'It's a first in history for a typhoon with such movement and intensity,' said Gene Huang of the CWA. Over 1,690 Kaohsiung residents have been evacuated, with Mayor Chen Chi-mai urging preparedness.

Military and emergency medical teams are on standby. Rail and some domestic flight services are disrupted; however, international flights remain unaffected so far. In recent memory, Typhoon Gaemi killed at least 11 people in Taiwan last July.