TAIWAN: The Central Weather Administration (CWA) reported that the storm hit the Xiaogang district at approximately 12:40 p.m. local time, bringing maximum sustained winds of 126 kph (78 mph) and gusts reaching up to 162 kph (101 mph).

Despite being classified as a weakened Category 1 storm, Krathon’s unusual landfall on the west coast, rather than the more typical east, has local media dubbing it a “weird” storm. Heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc across eastern Taiwan, with some areas experiencing more than 1.6 meters (5.2 feet) of rain, leading to landslides and rockfalls.

Reports from Kaohsiung indicate significant damage, with trees uprooted and buildings swaying in the wind. Krathon’s slow movement could prolong its impact on Taiwan, particularly on the western regions, where about 90% of the population resides.

Tragically, two fatalities have been confirmed, with around 123 individuals injured, according to the National Fire Agency. The deceased included a 70-year-old man in Hualien who fell while trimming trees, and a 66-year-old near Taitung whose truck struck a fallen rock.

In response to the dangerous conditions, all domestic flights have been suspended, and approximately 240 international flights have been canceled. Mayor Chen Chi-mai of Kaohsiung urged residents to stay indoors, reporting 356 disaster cases linked to the storm, mostly involving fallen trees and damaged signage.

The storm has left over 100,000 homes without electricity, as strong waves battered the coastline in Pingtung County. However, some factories, including chipmaker TSMC in the Southern Taiwan Science Park, continue operations amidst the chaos.

Typhoon Krathon approached Taiwan after causing damage and power outages in the Philippines. While typhoons are common this time of year, they typically hit Taiwan’s mountainous east coast. Memories of Typhoon Gaemi, which struck in July and became the strongest to make landfall in eight years, still linger, having resulted in at least ten deaths and hundreds of injuries.