"Champi" typhoon threat in Taiwan: nearly a thousand flights canceled

In Taiwan, operations were suspended across a large part of the region due to the approach of Typhoon Champi. On the island, where strong winds and heavy rains are being observed, 262 domestic and 717 international flights were cancelled. Reuters reported this.

 

According to Taiwan's Central Weather Administration, wind speeds near the typhoon's center reached 191 kilometers per hour. It is located east of the island, at a distance of approximately 170 kilometers. According to forecasts, the typhoon will pass near Taiwan's northeastern coast on Friday evening, head toward the Chinese coast, and later reach southern Japan.

 

One person died and 163 people were injured as a result of the natural disaster. The government evacuated 2,639 people from mountainous areas. Also, more than 77,000 households were left without power, but electricity was later restored in most of them.

 

Meteorologists reported that the typhoon's wind-affected area covers nearly 320 kilometers. Experts forecast that its impact may last nearly two days. In Taiwan's northern mountainous areas, including around the capital Taipei, up to one meter of rain is expected.

 

Local authorities distributed sandbags in dangerous areas and put rescue equipment on standby. Warnings have been sent to residents of some coastal areas that wind speeds may exceed 150 kilometers per hour.

 

Due to the typhoon, Taiwan's financial markets also suspended operations on Friday. The high-speed rail service connecting the north and south of the country continued on its regular schedule. In the capital Taipei, metro and other public transport services operated on a reduced schedule.

 

TSMC, the world's largest contract microchip manufacturer, announced that the typhoon had not seriously affected its operations and that work processes were continuing as usual.

 

According to forecasts, Typhoon Champi will first pass near Yonaguni Island in Japan's Okinawa Prefecture.