What is Super Typhoon Krathon? Category 4 Hurricane to Hit Taiwan's Populated West Coast

Taiwan is an island country located in East Asia. It is situated in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 180 kilometres (112 miles) off the southeastern coast of mainland China, separated by the Taiwan Strait.

The country is bordered by the East China Sea to the north, the Philippine Sea to the east, the South China Sea to the south, and the Taiwan Strait to the west.

As an island country, Taiwan is prone to typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural hazards due to its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire. 

On Monday, Taiwan issued a land warning in advance of Typhoon Krathon, which is predicted to strengthen and sweep across the heavily populated western coast, bringing heavy rain and strong winds.

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What is Typhoon Krathon?

Typhoon Krathon is a very strong tropical cyclone that has recently formed in the South China Sea. It is currently affecting areas in the Philippines and is forecast to make landfall in Taiwan.

Current Situation

• Impact on the Philippines: Krathon has already hit the northern islands of the Philippines, causing evacuations and significant weather disruptions17.
• Forecast for Taiwan: The typhoon is expected to strike Taiwan's densely populated west coast, particularly the major port city of Kaohsiung, early on Wednesday. It could bring heavy rain and strong winds, with speeds potentially exceeding 220 kph (125 mph) near its centre.

Characteristics of Typhoon Krathon

• Classification: Krathon is categorised as a medium-strength typhoon but is predicted to intensify further, possibly reaching the strength of a Category 4 hurricane.
• Weather Conditions: Residents in affected areas are warned to prepare for extreme weather conditions, including winds over 150 km/h (93 mph) and heavy rainfall, which could lead to flooding14.

Preparedness Measures

Taiwan has taken precautions by putting over 2,200 soldiers on standby and cancelling boat services to nearby islands. Some domestic flights have also been disrupted due to the impending storm.

How does Typhoon Krathon compare to other typhoons that have hit Taiwan? 

Typhoon Krathon is notable for its intensity and path, making it a significant event in Taiwan's history of typhoons. Here’s how it compares to other notable typhoons that have impacted the island.

Intensity and Classification

Krathon's Strength: Currently classified as a Category 4 typhoon, Krathon has sustained winds reaching up to 220 kph (125 mph) and gusts up to 270 kph (168 mph). This level of intensity is comparable to some of the strongest typhoons recorded in the region.

Historical Comparisons:

• Typhoon Thelma (1977): This typhoon was also extremely powerful, causing significant destruction and loss of life. Kaohsiung's mayor noted that Krathon's strength is "no less powerful" than Thelma, which killed 37 people and left the city without water and electricity for days.
• Typhoon Morakot (2009): Known for causing catastrophic flooding, Morakot brought heavy rainfall leading to landslides, particularly in mountainous regions. While Morakot was devastating, Krathon's direct impact on Taiwan's densely populated western plains is considered more unusual and potentially more destructive due to the combination of high winds and storm surge.

Path of Landfall

• Krathon's Unique Path: Unlike most typhoons that typically strike Taiwan's eastern coast, Krathon is set to make landfall on the western plains, particularly affecting major urban areas like Kaohsiung. This is significant as these areas are less accustomed to such direct hits from powerful storms.
• Comparison with Other Typhoons: Most typhoons impacting Taiwan tend to hit the eastern coast, which is more mountainous and sparsely populated. For example, Typhoon Haiyan (2013) primarily affected the eastern regions before moving on. Krathon's trajectory poses a greater risk to densely populated areas, increasing the potential for severe damage and casualties.

What precautions are residents in Taiwan taking for Typhoon Krathon?

As Typhoon Krathon approaches Taiwan, residents and authorities are implementing a range of precautions to ensure safety and minimise damage. Here are the key measures being taken:

Evacuations and Safety Measures

• Evacuations: Over 7,700 residents have been evacuated from vulnerable areas, particularly in southern Taiwan, where the typhoon is expected to make landfall.
• Emergency Services: Nearly 40,000 troops have been mobilised for rescue operations and to assist in disaster management efforts across the island.

School and Business Closures

• School Closures: Schools across southern and eastern Taiwan have been closed, with some classes moved online to ensure students' safety.
• Business Shutdowns: Many shops, restaurants, and offices have closed their doors as a precautionary measure. In Kaohsiung, for example, streets are mostly deserted as businesses prepare for the storm.

Preparations at Home

• Flood Protection: Residents in affected areas, especially in Kaohsiung, are filling sandbags and erecting barriers around their homes to protect against flooding. Approximately 23,000 sandbags have been distributed throughout the city.
• Securing Property: People are taking steps to secure their properties by taping windows and ensuring that outdoor items are safely stored away to prevent them from being blown away by strong winds.

Transportation Adjustments

• Flight Cancellations: Dozens of domestic and international flights have been cancelled in anticipation of the storm's impact. The transport ministry has also halted boat services to outlying islands.
• Rail Services: Some rail lines have been closed, while others are operating under enhanced safety checks due to the expected severe weather conditions.

Community Preparedness

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Authorities are issuing warnings about potential storm surges and heavy rainfall. Residents are advised to stay indoors and limit travel during the storm.
• Emergency Supplies: Many residents are stockpiling essential supplies, including food, water, and emergency kits containing torches and first aid items.

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