Taiwan has shut down schools and offices and cancelled hundreds of flights as Typhoon Champi approaches the island with strong winds and torrential rainfall.
The storm, which was previously classified as a super typhoon, weakened as it moved towards Taiwan but continued to pose a significant threat to communities, transport services and infrastructure.
According to reports, one person was killed after being swept away by waves, while more than 170 others sustained injuries as the storm battered parts of the island.
Authorities said more than 2,600 people were evacuated from vulnerable mountainous areas as a precaution against flooding, landslides and other storm-related dangers.
The transport ministry cancelled all 262 domestic flights and hundreds of international flights, disrupting air travel across the island.
Strong winds also caused power outages, with more than 77,000 homes reportedly losing electricity at the height of the storm. Power supplies were subsequently restored to many affected households.
Taiwan’s weather authorities warned residents, particularly those living in coastal communities, to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities and remain alert to falling objects, dangerous waves and flooding.
In northeastern Taiwan, emergency officials placed rescue boats, specialised vehicles and other equipment on standby to support evacuation and disaster response operations.
The typhoon has also affected neighbouring areas. In southwestern Japan, one person was injured, flights were disrupted and some communities experienced power outages.
Meanwhile, authorities in the Philippines restricted maritime travel in parts of the country because of increasingly rough seas, while flight cancellations and other precautionary measures were introduced in vulnerable areas.
Although the storm was forecast to pass close to Taiwan before moving towards Japan, weather officials warned that its large circulation could prolong strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Residents have been urged to follow official safety instructions as emergency agencies continue monitoring the storm and responding to its impact.
