Typhoon Koinu grinded towards southern Taiwan bringing heavy rain and winds and causing the cancellation of more than 100 flights and suspension of work and schools in urban areas in southern parts of the island from the evening.
Koinu is expected to make landfall on Taiwan’s southeastern coast near the city of Taitung today as a category three typhoon, but then weaken as it crosses the island’s southern tip and enters the Taiwan Strait, according to Tropical Storm Risk.
In Taitung, fishermen secured their boats in port, as waves gradually became more intense along Taiwan’s east coast.
Kaohsiung and its neighbouring city of Tainan said they would suspend work and classes from 6pm yesterday as the weather worsens.
Taiwan’s capital Taipei was lashed by squally rain showers, but it was not expected to be directly impacted by the typhoon and offices and schools remained open as normal.
Taiwanese airlines cancelled 87 domestic flights, while 25 international ones were also cancelled, the transport ministry said. — Reuters
