KAOHSIUNG: Taiwan shut down schools and closed its financial markets on Wednesday (Oct 2) as Typhoon Krathon pounded the island with torrential rains and strong winds ahead of its expected landfall.jazz casino,
Krathon, with sustained wind speeds of 144 kmh and gusts of up to 180 kmh, was 100km southwest of the major port city Kaohsiung at 9pm, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) said.
The government announced that offices and schools across the island will remain closed on Thursday. The interior ministry said around 10,000 people had been evacuated from vulnerable areas as a precaution.
The typhoon, downgraded overnight to medium from strong under Taiwan's measurement system, was expected to arrive near southwestern Kaohsiung or Tainan on Thursday morning, the agency said, a day later than previously forecast.
"This typhoon is moving very slowly. The time of its landfall continues to be delayed," said CWA chief Cheng Chia-ping, adding it will weaken rapidly after landing.
Premier Cho Jung-tai urged the public to stay at home and remain vigilant.
"Krathon is moving very slowlyjazz casino,, which also prolongs the time it may cause damage to Taiwan ... It is necessary to strengthen vigilance in the south and the eastern areas affected by continuous rainfall."
Waves splash close to a harbour as Typhoon Krathon approaches Kaohsiung, Taiwan, on Oct 1, 2024. (Photo: Reuters/Ann Wang)