Typhoon Koinu, a powerful storm equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane, is rapidly approaching southern Taiwan. The storm, with sustained winds of 130 mph, is expected to bring heavy rainfall, which may lead to floods, landslides, and dangerous seas.
In a surprising turn of events, a wind gust of 213 mph was recorded on Orchid Island, a volcanic island east of southern Taiwan. If confirmed, this would be one of the strongest wind gusts ever recorded on Earth.
As the storm moves toward southern Taiwan, its peak winds are predicted to decrease to 120 mph. However, these winds are still strong enough to cause damage to homes, businesses, and trees.
After passing Taiwan, Typhoon Koinu may continue its path towards southeast China and Hong Kong over the weekend and into early next week. Although it is expected to weaken significantly, the slow movement of the storm could result in heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding.
As a precautionary measure, approximately 100 flights to and from Taiwan were canceled, along with a similar number of local ferries. Schools in coastal regions and on outlying islands were also closed due to the worsening conditions.
While gusty showers were anticipated in Taipei, the capital city, offices and schools remained open.
The Joint Typhoon Warning Center has reported that Koino is expected to make landfall near the southern tip of Taiwan early Thursday morning. Code red alerts for torrential rain and other typhoon impacts have been issued for various areas in Taiwan, including the Hengchun Peninsula and Taitung and Haulien counties.
Periods of heavy rain are forecasted to persist until at least late Friday, particularly in the mountainous regions of the southeast. Rainfall totals of 8 to 12 inches are expected across the island’s south, with localized totals possibly exceeding that range.
Furthermore, waves near the storm center have reached 40 feet, potentially leading to coastal erosion and significant storm surge.
Once in the Taiwan Strait, Typhoon Koinu is expected to weaken further as it heads towards Guangdong and Fujian provinces in southeast China. However, the slow-moving low-pressure area associated with the typhoon could cause substantial rainfall and potential flooding along the coastal areas.
Looking ahead, there is a possibility that the remnants of the storm may drift south and reorganize over warmer waters.
Taiwan is no stranger to typhoons, particularly in the southern region. On average, this area experiences one typhoon per year within 100 miles of its tip.
The last comparable storm to Koinu in southern Taiwan was Typhoon Nepartak in 2016, which made landfall as a Category 3 storm with 125 mph winds. In the same year, Typhoon Meranti passed south of Taiwan as a powerful Category 5 storm with 180 mph winds.
Typhoon Chanthu, another intense storm, approached the region in 2021 but weakened as it hovered offshore.
It is essential for residents and authorities in affected areas to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this severe weather event.