Taiwan braces for largest typhoon in decades as Kong-rey approaches with winds of up to 225km/h. The storm, expected to be the biggest since 1996, has prompted closures of schools, businesses, and transport services. Authorities warn of landslides, storm surges, and significant rainfall. More than 8,600 people have been evacuated from at-risk areas, with military exercises cancelled and troops on standby for disaster response. The storm is expected to make landfall near Taitung on Taiwan’s south-east coast before moving inland and weakening over the central mountain range. Emergency services are on high alert, with reports of high winds and property damage in Hualien County. Flights have been cancelled, and ship traffic around Taiwan significantly reduced. The storm’s large size and high winds have raised concerns for safety, with over 63 landslide warnings issued and two Czech nationals reportedly missing in a national park. The storm is the latest in a series of natural disasters to hit the region this year, underscoring the need for preparedness and swift emergency response measures. Taiwan remains on high alert as it braces for Kong-rey’s impact.
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