TAIPEI – Typhoon Kong-rey, the most powerful storm to directly hit Taiwan in nearly three decades, made landfall on the island’s eastern coast this afternoon, unleashing a torrent of destruction. With winds exceeding 200 km/h at its center, Kong-rey has been classified as equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane, wreaking havoc across the nation.

In anticipation of the storm, schools and workplaces closed their doors on Thursday, while supermarkets were left stripped bare as millions of residents prepared for the onslaught. The typhoon hit at approximately 13:40 local time (04:40 GMT), and its ferocious winds have led to widespread damage, with over 70 injuries reported and at least one fatality confirmed.

As of Thursday afternoon, local authorities reported that Kong-rey had weakened to a “moderate typhoon,” but the damage was already extensive. Power outages affected half a million households, according to Taiwan Power Company, complicating recovery efforts.

In Hualien County, reports of disaster came from local residents, but emergency responders struggled to reach affected areas due to the severe wind and rain. “We keep receiving calls about various incidents, but it’s just too dangerous to mobilize right now,” stated an employee of the local township administrative office.

This late-season typhoon is unusual for Taiwan, whose typhoon season typically runs from July to September. The storm’s unexpected arrival has caught many off guard, heightening fears of further impacts as it continues to move across the island.

Hundreds of flights and ferries have been suspended, and Taiwan’s stock exchange has also halted trading as the nation grapples with the aftermath of this historic storm. As recovery efforts begin, residents are urged to stay safe and follow official guidance.

The government is mobilizing resources to assist those in need, with a focus on restoring power and clearing debris. As the storm subsides, the full extent of Kong-rey’s devastation is expected to unfold, leaving the people of Taiwan to confront the challenges ahead. (zai)