Typhoon Krathon: Unprecedented Chaos in Southwestern Taiwan

Typhoon Krathon, dubbed 'weird,' struck southwestern Taiwan, causing severe flooding, power outages affecting 178,000 homes, and two deaths. Despite losing strength, it grounded flights, closed financial markets, and incited government warnings. Unusually impacting Taiwan's west coast, it generated record winds and left a trail of destruction.

In an unusual meteorological event, Typhoon Krathon battered southwestern Taiwan on Thursday, leaving a trail of heavy rainfall and widespread flooding in its wake. The storm, which has been described as 'weird', led to power cuts in approximately 178,000 homes and resulted in two fatalities.

Though reduced to a Category 1 typhoon, Krathon still managed to uproot trees, topple streetlights, and scatter debris across urban areas. The Taiwanese government issued a fervent plea for citizens to remain indoors amidst the disruptions, with flights cancelled and financial markets shuttered for the day.

While most facilities stood resilient, the Southern Taiwan Science Park continued operations, highlighting the mixed impact across the island. Typhoon Krathon's impact, while not as deadly as historical storms, left an indelible mark with its peculiar trajectory and the record-setting gales.

(With inputs from agencies.)