Taiwan Implements Precautionary Measures as Typhoon Haikui Approaches

In anticipation of the impending arrival of Typhoon Haikui, Taiwan has taken decisive steps to safeguard its population and infrastructure. Flights, rail transport, and ferry services have been temporarily suspended, while educational institutions have suspended classes. Moreover, outdoor events have been postponed, and authorities are strongly advising workers to remain at home. These measures have been enacted as Typhoon Haikui is forecasted to make its presence felt on the island later on Sunday.

Coinciding with Typhoon Haikui’s approach, Typhoon Saola has been gradually weakening while traversing the Chinese coast. In response, extensive efforts have been made to ensure the safety of the populace. Notably, around 900,000 individuals and 80,000 fishing vessels have been relocated to secure locations. In the bustling city of Hong Kong and several coastal regions, businesses, transportation, and schools have been temporarily shut down as a precautionary measure. Although initial damage assessments appear to be minor, these restrictions were predominantly lifted by Sunday, indicating a resumption of normalcy.

Taiwan has already begun to experience the impact of Typhoon Haikui, with heavy rainfall and strong winds affecting parts of the island. Consequently, numerous domestic flights have been canceled, including air services to both Hong Kong and Macao. As confirmed by the island’s meteorological bureau, the typhoon is characterized by sustained winds reaching 137 kph (85 mph) and gusts of up to 173 kph (107 mph).

The impending typhoon’s influence has extended to various events, leading to their cancellation. Among these were a hot air balloon festival in the central Taichung region, several outdoor concerts, art events, and a baseball festival. National parks and hazardous mountain roads within the island’s central mountainous region have also been closed to ensure public safety.

After passing over Taiwan, Typhoon Haikui is projected to continue its trajectory towards China. Authorities in the Chinese city of Shantou, situated in Guangdong province, are advising residents to take necessary precautions in anticipation of the storm’s arrival. This collective effort aims to minimize the potential impact on communities.

The ripple effects of Typhoon Saola have been felt in various parts of China as well. In multiple Chinese cities, workers have been advised to remain at home, leading to the postponement of the start of the school year for students. In Hong Kong, the stock market experienced a temporary suspension of trading, while flight cancellations at the airport disrupted travel plans for hundreds of individuals, impacting the region’s economic and travel activities.

The cross-border bridge connecting Hong Kong, Macao, and Zhuhai faced temporary closure during this time. Macao’s leader, Ho Iat Seng, further mandated the suspension of casino operations in response to the adverse weather conditions.

While the storm’s impact has prompted vigilance, it’s notable that the Hong Kong Observatory issued a No. 10 hurricane alert, which is the highest level in the city’s weather system. This is the first instance of such an alert being issued since 2018. However, by Saturday night, all warnings were lifted, and individuals who had taken refuge in prepared facilities were able to return to their homes.

In recent months, China has grappled with severe rains and catastrophic flooding across different regions. Tragically, numerous casualties have been reported, including in the outskirts of the capital, Beijing, where mountainous terrains contributed to the challenges faced.

In the midst of these natural challenges, Hong Kong’s government reported the uprooting of 1,206 trees and flooding in 18 different areas. A total of 75 individuals sought medical attention for injuries related to the storm.

Despite the concurrent presence of Typhoon Haikui and Typhoon Saola, China’s military continued its activities, some of which were aimed at exerting pressure on Taiwan. Notably, Taiwan, a self-governing democracy, remains a target for potential reunification under Chinese sovereignty, even if it involves the use of force. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry has closely monitored the movements of Chinese military assets, including aircraft and navy ships, in the vicinity of the island. It’s pertinent to mention that, at this juncture, there is no evidence indicating any breaches of the median line in the Taiwan Strait or unauthorized entry into Taiwan’s air defense identification zone, a phenomenon that has been observed on multiple occasions. This continuous vigilance underscores the complex dynamics between Taiwan and China.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Typhoon Haikui

More about Typhoon Haikui

• Taiwan Braces for Arrival of Typhoon Haikui – Reuters
• Typhoon Saola Weakens Along Chinese Coast – AP News
• Hong Kong Observatory’s Hurricane Alerts – Hong Kong Observatory
• China Faces Heaviest Rains and Deadly Flooding – Al Jazeera