Authorities in Taiwan are warning residents along the eastern coast to prepare for the impacts of Super Typhoon Kong-rey, which has rapidly intensified as it heads towards the island after affecting the Philippines. Kong-rey, now a super typhoon with winds of 240 kilometers per hour (150 miles per hour), is equivalent to a Category 4 Atlantic hurricane. It is forecasted to make landfall early Thursday in Taitung, a sparsely populated county on Taiwan's southeastern coast.
The powerful storm is expected to bring intense downpours, flash flooding, storm surges, and the risk of landslides. Waves up to eight meters high are anticipated upon landfall. Taiwan's military has mobilized about 36,000 soldiers for rescue and relief efforts, with over 6,000 first responders on standby. Flights and ferries are currently operating as usual, but precautions are being taken.
Taiwan has a history of effectively responding to major typhoons, but remote mountainous areas remain vulnerable to landslides. Two outlying islands, Green Island and Orchid Island, have already suspended work and classes. In the Philippines, Kong-rey's outer bands have been affecting northern Luzon, following the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Trami last week.
As Kong-rey continues its path towards Taiwan, residents are urged to make necessary preparations and stay informed about the storm's progress. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.
