Taiwan is on high alert as Typhoon Gaemi, the first typhoon of the season, made landfall on the island’s northeast coast. The storm has led to widespread disruptions, including flight cancellations and market closures.
Key Takeaways
- Typhoon Gaemi made landfall on Taiwan’s northeast coast.
- Flights have been canceled and markets closed.
- Schools and offices across Taiwan are shut down.
- The storm is expected to move towards China’s Fujian province by Friday.
- At least 12 deaths have been reported in the Philippines due to the storm.
Typhoon Gaemi’s Impact on Taiwan
On Wednesday, July 24, Typhoon Gaemi made its presence felt on Taiwan’s northeast coast. The storm has caused significant disruptions, leading to the cancellation of flights and the closure of markets. Schools and offices across the island have also been shut down as a precautionary measure.
Taipei, usually bustling with activity, has seen its streets empty as residents heed warnings to stay indoors. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an urged citizens to remain at home, emphasizing the severity of the storm. "Tomorrow, please stay at home," he wrote on his Facebook page. "Gaemi, the first typhoon to make landfall this year, continues to strengthen."
Moving Towards China
The typhoon is expected to move towards China’s Fujian province by Friday. Authorities in the region are preparing for the storm’s impact, with measures being put in place to minimize damage and ensure public safety.
Casualties in the Philippines
While Typhoon Gaemi did not make landfall in the Philippines, it has still caused significant damage. The storm has resulted in at least 12 deaths, exacerbating the already high levels of seasonal monsoon rainfall. Strong winds and heavy rains have added to the challenges faced by the affected communities.
Precautionary Measures
In response to the typhoon, several precautionary measures have been implemented across Taiwan:
- Flight Cancellations: Numerous flights have been canceled to ensure passenger safety.
- Market Closures: Markets have been closed to prevent any potential hazards.
- School and Office Shutdowns: Educational institutions and workplaces have been closed to keep people safe indoors.
Fishing boat captain Hung Chun expressed his concerns about the storm, stating, "This could be the biggest typhoon in recent years." The sentiment is shared by many as Taiwan braces for the full impact of Typhoon Gaemi.
Conclusion
As Typhoon Gaemi continues to strengthen, Taiwan remains vigilant, taking all necessary precautions to protect its citizens. The storm’s trajectory towards China’s Fujian province adds another layer of concern, prompting authorities to stay on high alert. The coming days will be crucial in determining the extent of the typhoon’s impact on the region.
