In the wake of Typhoon Krathon, southern Taiwan is currently engaged in extensive cleanup efforts, particularly in the port city of Kaohsiung and neighboring Pingtung county. The typhoon, which has since been downgraded to a tropical depression, made landfall on October 3, 2024, causing significant disruption to daily life and infrastructure in the region.
Kaohsiung, Taiwan's largest port city and third-largest urban center with a population of approximately 2.77 million, bore the brunt of the storm's impact. The city experienced record-breaking winds, resulting in flooded streets, shattered windows, and widespread debris. Mayor Chen Chi-mai reported that some areas received more rainfall than during the previous Typhoon Gaemi in July 2024.
While most of Taiwan has resumed normal activities, local governments in Kaohsiung and Pingtung declared an additional day off work to facilitate recovery efforts. These include removing fallen trees, pumping out floodwaters, and clearing roads of debris. The cleanup operation is particularly crucial for Pingtung, as its plain is one of Taiwan's most important agricultural regions.
The impact of Typhoon Krathon extends beyond immediate physical damage. As of October 4, 2024, approximately 100,000 households, primarily in Kaohsiung and Pingtung, remain without power. The island's north-south high-speed rail system has reopened, showcasing Taiwan's resilience in the face of natural disasters. However, air travel continues to face disruptions, with 13 international and 85 domestic flights cancelled.
Taiwan, an island nation of about 23.5 million people covering 36,000 square kilometers, is no stranger to typhoons. The country experiences an average of 3-4 typhoons annually, typically occurring between June and November. Its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire also makes it prone to earthquakes, adding to the challenges faced by its infrastructure and disaster response systems.
"I have never seen winds like that. It was so bad."
The typhoon's impact has been severe, with the fire department reporting two fatalities, both men who perished on the mountainous east coast before the typhoon made landfall. One person remains missing, and 667 injuries have been recorded. These numbers underscore the importance of Taiwan's disaster preparedness and response mechanisms.
In a tragic coincidence, authorities are investigating a fire that broke out at a Pingtung hospital as the typhoon approached, resulting in nine fatalities. This incident highlights the compounded risks that natural disasters can pose to critical infrastructure and vulnerable populations.
Despite the challenges posed by Typhoon Krathon, Taiwan's resilience is evident. The island nation, known for its robust semiconductor industry which accounts for over 60% of the global market, is working swiftly to restore normalcy. Kaohsiung Harbor, one of the world's largest container ports, will play a crucial role in the economic recovery of the region.
As cleanup efforts continue, the people of southern Taiwan are demonstrating their strength and community spirit. From the subtropical north to the tropical south, the island is coming together to support those affected by the typhoon, showcasing the resilience that has defined Taiwan throughout its history.