Taiwan has taken significant measures to safeguard its residents in light of the approaching Typhoon Fung-wong, evacuating over 3,300 people as the typhoon is predicted to strike the island’s southwestern coast near the busy port of Kaohsiung. With its trajectory set to make landfall on Wednesday, Fung-wong follows a devastating path through the Philippines, where it caused 18 fatalities, primarily due to landslides in the mountainous regions.
Despite being downgraded to a weaker state, Taiwanese authorities remain vigilant. Chen Chi-mai, the mayor of Kaohsiung, emphasized the need for continued caution as the storm is forecasted to bring heavy rainfall to Taiwan’s already vulnerable eastern coast, which has faced intense storms in recent weeks.
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te urged citizens to avoid dangerous areas, including mountains and coastlines, as the typhoon approaches. The Transport Ministry reported the cancellation of 66 flights in anticipation of the storm, reflecting the broader impact on the region’s transport systems.
After hitting Taiwan, Fung-wong is expected to traverse the island and enter the Pacific Ocean along the less populated eastern counties of Hualien and Taitung. This follows a prior typhoon in September that had inflicted serious flooding in Hualien, resulting in numerous casualties.
Meanwhile, in the Philippines, the full extent of the destruction from Fung-wong’s earlier fury has become clear, with survivors recounting harrowing experiences of landslide-induced chaos. Widespread damage necessitated evacuations, and the resilience of the Filipino citizens shines through the adversity, showcasing their strong community bonds.
As Taiwan braces for Fung-wong, both nations’ experiences underscore the ongoing challenges posed by such powerful storms. They also reflect the vital importance of preparedness and collaboration among communities, as they navigate the dual threats of severe weather and environmental change. The hope remains that with proactive measures and community strength, affected regions will recover and rebuild, cherishing the spirit of resilience that prevails in the face of nature’s challenges.