On October 4, 2024, Taiwan began to recover from the impact of Typhoon Krathon, which had brought the island to a standstill for three days. The Central Weather Administration, Taiwan's primary meteorological agency, reported that the typhoon had weakened to a tropical depression after crossing the island's southwestern tip.
Most of Taiwan resumed normal activities, with work, classes, and flights restarting across the island. However, some areas remained affected by closures, including Kaohsiung city, Pingtung County, and parts of Hualien County and New Taipei. These regions, particularly vulnerable to typhoon impacts due to their geographical locations, continued to exercise caution.
Despite the typhoon's weakening, a heavy rain advisory remained in place for the northern coast and mountainous areas. Two landslides were reported early on October 4, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with saturated soil in Taiwan's mountainous terrain. Taiwan experiences an average of 3-4 typhoons annually, making it well-prepared for such events.
Krathon had initially lashed Kaohsiung, Taiwan's largest port city, with winds reaching 126 kph (78 mph). The typhoon caused significant damage, including fallen trees and flooded roads. Taitung County, known for its diverse aboriginal cultures, recorded an astounding 171 centimeters (5.6 feet) of rainfall over six days, showcasing the extreme precipitation that typhoons can bring to the island.
The Taiwan Fire Agency, responsible for disaster response, reported two fatalities earlier in the week, with one person still missing after being swept off a bridge. These incidents underscore the dangers posed by severe weather events, even in a nation with comprehensive disaster preparedness systems.
Interestingly, Krathon became only the second typhoon in recent history to "die" over Taiwan, following Typhoon Trami in 2001. This unusual phenomenon is attributed to Taiwan's central mountain range, which runs from north to south and can significantly affect typhoon behavior and intensity.
While authorities had initially feared devastation comparable to a major typhoon that struck Kaohsiung in 1977, causing 37 deaths, Krathon's impact was less severe than anticipated. This outcome demonstrates the progress made in Taiwan's weather forecasting and disaster response capabilities over the past decades.
As Taiwan returns to normalcy, the event serves as a reminder of the island's vulnerability to tropical cyclones. With climate change expected to increase the intensity of typhoons in the Western Pacific, Taiwan's resilience and preparedness will continue to be tested in the years to come.
The resumption of domestic flights is particularly crucial for Taiwan's economy, which relies heavily on its technology industries. These sectors are susceptible to disruptions caused by severe weather events, highlighting the importance of efficient recovery processes.
As the island nation moves forward, it will undoubtedly analyze the lessons learned from Typhoon Krathon to further enhance its already robust disaster management strategies, ensuring the safety and well-being of its 23.5 million residents in the face of future natural challenges.