Taiwan took precautionary measures in response to Typhoon Champi as it passed by the island, resulting in the closure of schools, offices, and the grounding of numerous flights. The typhoon, initially reaching peak sustained winds of 298 kilometers per hour, weakened to 155 kilometers per hour as it neared Taiwan from the southwest. The storm’s center is anticipated to stay offshore as it moves along the island’s northeastern edge before veering north towards Japan’s southwestern islands.
Authorities from Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration advised residents in coastal regions to refrain from outdoor activities and driving, emphasizing the risk of falling objects. Tragically, one individual lost their life on Thursday after being swept away by waves in Liuqiu, an island near Taiwan’s southeastern coast, with 94 others sustaining storm-related injuries. Over 2,600 individuals residing in vulnerable mountainous areas were evacuated by the government as a precautionary measure.
Flight operations were significantly impacted, with all 262 domestic flights within Taiwan and 669 international flights being canceled, according to the Transport Ministry. Despite its extensive reach of approximately 320 kilometers, transportation services including the subway remained operational in the capital city of Taipei, experiencing light rainfall and gusts of wind.
Meteorological experts anticipated the typhoon’s major impact on Taiwan to persist until Saturday, with Japan’s southern mainland expected to face its effects by Monday. In southwestern Japan, one individual was injured, flights were disrupted, and power outages occurred due to the typhoon.
The Philippines also experienced adverse weather conditions, prompting the coast guard to prohibit ships and ferries from navigating the rough seas near various northern towns and cities. Additionally, in Batanes provincial capital, the main domestic airport was closed as a safety measure, with two local flights canceled. In Cagayan province, close to 200 individuals relocated to safer areas, with nearly 100 seeking refuge in emergency shelters. Classes were suspended in the island town of Calayan off Cagayan due to the typhoon’s impact.
Earlier in the month, Typhoon Champi affected several Pacific islands, including Guam, where a federal disaster area was declared.