As Taiwan braced itself for the impending arrival of Typhoon Krathon, the island nation came to a standstill. With torrential rain lashing the southern region, the authorities took no chances as they shut down schools, offices, and financial markets in anticipation of the storm’s impact.
In the bustling port city of Kaohsiung, where the eye of the storm was predicted to pass, officials urged residents to remain indoors and steer clear of the sea, rivers, and mountains. Memories of the devastating Typhoon Thelma of 1977 loomed large, reminding the population of the destructive force that nature could unleash.
Despite Krathon being downgraded, meteorologists highlighted the persistent threats posed by storm surges, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai emphasized the need for caution, warning that even as the typhoon weakened upon hitting land, its trajectory towards the north could lead to a resurgence in power.
Tragically, amidst the preparations and evacuations, reports emerged of one fatality and two individuals missing. An elderly man in Hualien succumbed after a fall from a tree, underscoring the dangers posed by the approaching typhoon.
Across the island, cities and counties declared a holiday, with thousands of individuals evacuated to safer locations. While some areas remained operational, the overriding sense of preparedness and vigilance was palpable.
Reflecting on past experiences and learning from the lessons of history, Taiwan mobilized its defences. Sandbags were distributed, troops placed on standby, and precautions were taken to mitigate the potential impact of Krathon’s arrival.
As Typhoon Krathon neared the coast, Taiwan stood united in its resolve to face the challenge head-on. Despite the disruptions and uncertainty, the spirit of resilience and preparedness shone through, embodying the nation’s determination to weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.
(With media inputs)