As Typhoon Haikui takes aim at Taiwan, nearly 3,000 residents have been moved from areas most vulnerable to the impending storm, predominantly in the eastern regions of the island.
Taiwan stands in the direct path of a formidable tropical storm for the first time in four years. Haikui, boasting sustained wind speeds of around 140 kilometres per hour, is predicted to strike Taiwan’s eastern territory near Taitung around 5:00pm (0900 GMT). This forthcoming storm evokes concerns as it’s one of the most potent to confront the island in recent times.
The local authorities have initiated a slew of protective measures to counter the looming danger. Educational institutions and workplaces in southern and eastern Taiwan have been temporarily shut down. Air travel has seen disruptions, with over 200 domestic flights being suspended as a precaution.
Recent updates from Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau have revealed that Haikui was spotted roughly 180 kilometers east of the island by 9:00am. Fong Chin-tzu, the Bureau’s Deputy Director, pointed out that the storm’s intensity had escalated since its last recorded position. He emphasized the risks tied to Haikui’s powerful winds, torrential rains, and towering waves. Moreover, the storm is projected to veer westwards, heading for the Taiwan Strait by the start of the week.
Evacuations and Military Mobilizations in Anticipation
Evacuation procedures have been executed to minimize potential damage, moving over 2,800 individuals across seven cities. The majority hail from the mountainous Hualien county, which lies next to the anticipated landfall zone in Taitung. By Sunday morning, Hualien’s streets portrayed a ghostly scene, deserted except for the continuous heavy rainfall and looming storm clouds.
In tandem with these measures, the military has sprung into action. Soldiers, amphibious vehicles, and inflatable boats have been stationed in zones presumed to face the storm’s worst fury. Memories of Typhoon Bailu from 2019, which claimed a life, remain fresh. While Haikui is anticipated to be less intense than some previous storms, its approach has sent neighboring regions, including Hong Kong and southern China, into a state of heightened readiness.
As the clock ticks closer to Typhoon Haikui’s anticipated landfall, Taiwan’s primary focus remains the security and well-being of its citizens, ensuring every possible step is taken to lessen the storm’s impact.
