Typhoon Krathon made landfall in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, on October 3, 2024, bringing severe winds and heavy rainfall. Classified as a Category 1 storm at landfall, it had earlier been a much stronger Category 4 typhoon while lingering between Taiwan and the Philippines. Despite weakening, the slow-moving storm caused significant damage, including uprooted trees, shattered windows, and widespread flooding.
At least two people have died, and over 200 have been injured. Strong winds reaching up to 135 km/h (85 mph) and torrential rain resulted in the shutdown of schools, offices, and markets across Taiwan. More than 100,000 households experienced power outages, and flights were suspended.
Kaohsiung, one of Taiwan’s major port cities, bore the brunt of the storm as its slow progression exacerbated the damage. Authorities warned residents to stay indoors, fearing that the storm’s prolonged presence could lead to greater destruction. Over 38,000 soldiers were on standby to assist in rescue and recovery efforts.
Krathon also impacted northern parts of the Philippines earlier, causing evacuations and flooding in coastal areas. The storm’s unusual trajectory, hitting Taiwan’s west coast rather than the east, has drawn attention as well (DW)(News Channel 3-12).