Meteorologists warn that although Fung-wong has weakened, it may still cause severe flooding and landslides in regions already affected by the previous typhoon just weeks ago. Forecasts show the system will make landfall near the main port of Kaohsiung, in southwestern Taiwan, on Wednesday.
“Fung-wong may have been downgraded to a weak typhoon, but we still must not lower our caution,” said Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai.
The President of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, also announced on social networks, urging citizens to avoid mountainous and coastal areas, as well as all zones that could be exposed to the risk of landslides and floods.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Transport confirmed the cancellation of 66 flights, mostly domestic, as the typhoon is expected to cross the southern part of the island on Wednesday and then continue moving toward the Pacific Ocean along the coast of Taitung and Hualien counties.
Before reaching Taiwan, Fung-wong ravaged the Philippines, where it caused severe flooding and landslides that killed at least 18 people. A typhoon in September already hit Hualien, causing floods and as many casualties, which further increases the population’s fear of more rainfall.
(Vijesti.ba)
