[1/7]In this screenshot from a video provided by CTI, a collapsed canopy is seen in a parking lot in Hualien, Taiwan, on September 3, 2023, as Typhoon Haikui approaches. CTI acquires license rights through Portal
TAIPEI, Sept 3 (Portal) – Domestic flights were canceled and nearly 4,000 people evacuated as Typhoon Haikui swept across southeastern Taiwan on Sunday, bringing torrential rain and strong winds.
Haikui made landfall in Taiwan’s mountainous and sparsely populated far southeast on Sunday afternoon, becoming the first typhoon to directly hit Taiwan in four years. Counties and cities in the region canceled classes and declared a day off for workers.
According to a statement from her office, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen told a meeting of disaster officials that people should avoid going out, climbing mountains, going to the coast, fishing or engaging in water sports.
Fire officials said two people were slightly injured when a tree fell on a truck in eastern Hualien County. There were only a few other reports of damage. There were only isolated showers in the capital Taipei.
Haikui is a much weaker storm than Typhoon Saola, which hit Hong Kong and southern China’s Guangdong province on Saturday.
The Taiwanese government said 3,729 people had been evacuated, mostly in the south and east.
Taiwanese airlines canceled all domestic flights on Sunday and ferry services to surrounding islands were also suspended.
According to the Civil Aeronautics Administration, there were fewer disruptions to international flights, with only 41 canceled for Sunday.
The military has mobilized soldiers and equipment to help with flood relief and evacuation efforts.
After passing through southern Taiwan, Haikui is expected to reach the Taiwan Strait and make its way to China.
Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Additional reporting by Angie Teo; Edited by Jonathan Oatis and Edwina Gibbs
Our standards: The Thomson Portal Trust Principles.
Acquire license rights, opens new tab