Janice R. Andrews
Taiwan faced one of its most severe storms in decades as Typhoon Kong-rey struck on Thursday. The massive storm, boasting winds of 184 km/h (114 mph) and towering 10-meter waves, brought extensive destruction and claimed at least one life.
Kong-rey stands out as Taiwan’s largest typhoon in nearly three decades. Making landfall on Taiwan’s eastern coast Thursday afternoon, its exceptional 320-kilometer radius distinguishes it among historical storms, though its wind speeds matched July’s Typhoon Gaemi. Weather experts note the unusual timing of such a powerful storm this late in the typical July-October typhoon season.
The storm’s impact prompted nationwide shutdowns, with work and schools closed as residents sheltered from the extreme conditions. Emergency services reported widespread damage, including 205 storm-related injuries. In a tragic incident, a falling tree claimed one life in Nantou County.
The typhoon’s effects were particularly severe in Taitung County’s Chenggong town, where the eye passed through, and neighboring Hualien County experienced severe flooding. The disaster response included 35,000 troops on standby, addressing 34 mudslides, 162 damaged buildings, and 366 fallen trees.
Infrastructure took a heavy hit, with over 250,000 homes losing power and more than 400 flights canceled. TSMC, the semiconductor giant, implemented protective measures at its facilities. Authorities evacuated over 11,900 people from high-risk areas in Yilan, Hualien, and Taitung counties.
Kong-rey marks Taiwan’s third major typhoon this season, following the deadly impacts of Gaemi in July and Krathon in early October. Though the storm weakened to “moderate” status with 155 km/h winds after crossing Taiwan’s mountains, it continued to pose significant risks, particularly along the east coast, where rainfall exceeded one meter.
The increasing intensity of these storms has sparked discussions about Taiwan’s preparedness for extreme weather events in the context of climate change. While the island’s strict building codes and emergency responses have helped limit casualties, authorities emphasize the ongoing need for vigilance and compliance with safety measures as recovery efforts begin.
