As Taiwan prepares for the arrival of Typhoon Krathon, the island nation has implemented extensive safety measures. The storm, which has already claimed two lives, is expected to make landfall near Kaohsiung, Taiwan's largest port city, around midday on October 3, 2024.
Authorities have issued warnings to residents, with Kaohsiung's 2.7 million inhabitants receiving text alerts advising them to seek shelter from winds exceeding 160 kph (44 mph). The typhoon, initially more powerful, is forecast to weaken to a category 2 storm upon landfall. However, officials continue to caution about the potential for torrential rain and coastal storm surges.
Taiwan, situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, is no stranger to natural disasters. The island experiences an average of 3-4 typhoons annually, with its typhoon season typically running from June to November. To address these recurring threats, Taiwan has developed a comprehensive disaster prevention and relief system, including the establishment of the Central Weather Bureau in 1897 and the implementation of a nationwide earthquake early warning system in 2016.
The approaching typhoon has led to the suspension of domestic and international flights for a second consecutive day. Financial markets have also remained closed, highlighting the storm's significant impact on daily life and economic activities. This disruption underscores Taiwan's crucial role in global industries, particularly its semiconductor sector, which accounts for over 60% of worldwide chip production.
Kaohsiung authorities have been particularly vigilant in their preparations, mindful of the devastating effects of Typhoon Thelma in 1977, which resulted in 37 fatalities and widespread destruction. The city's readiness reflects Taiwan's broader commitment to disaster preparedness, evidenced by its network of over 2,000 automated weather stations and more than 150 seismic monitoring stations across the island.
As Typhoon Krathon slowly progresses along Taiwan's western plain, it is expected to weaken further, potentially becoming a tropical depression by late October 4, 2024. This trajectory is unusual, as typhoons typically impact Taiwan's Pacific-facing east coast rather than making direct landfall on the western seaboard.
The two reported casualties, both occurring in the mountainous and sparsely populated eastern region, serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by such extreme weather events. These incidents involved a man who fell while trimming a tree and another whose vehicle was struck by a falling rock, highlighting the diverse risks associated with typhoons.
Taiwan's preparedness for natural disasters extends beyond its meteorological capabilities. The island has made significant strides in environmental conservation, with forestry coverage increasing from 32% in 1952 to over 60% today. This expansion of green areas plays a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events and promoting overall ecological resilience.
As Kaohsiung and the rest of Taiwan brace for Typhoon Krathon's impact, the nation's advanced warning systems, comprehensive preparedness measures, and resilient infrastructure stand as testaments to its commitment to safeguarding its population and critical industries in the face of natural challenges.