Typhoon Kong-rey View From Space: Largest Storm to Hit Taiwan in Nearly 30 Years!

Typhoon Kong-rey is rapidly intensifying as it approaches Taiwan, with forecasts suggesting it could become the largest typhoon to make landfall on the island since 1996. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has upgraded Kong-rey to a “strong typhoon” category and issued sea and land warnings across much of Taiwan.

Current Status & Updates

• Kong-rey’s radius has expanded to 320 km, surpassing the 300 km threshold.
• The last typhoon with a radius over 300 km to hit Taiwan was Typhoon Herb in 1996.
• As of 3:15 p.m. Wednesday, Kong-rey was 410 km southeast of Eluanbi, moving northwest at 14 kph.
• Maximum sustained winds have reached 190 kph with gusts up to 234 kph.

Timing

The CWA predicts Kong-rey will make landfall on Taiwan’s east coast during the early hours of Thursday, 31 October. Taitung County is expected to bear the brunt of the initial impact.

Warnings and Preparations

Sea and land typhoon warnings have been issued for most of Taiwan, with red extremely heavy rainfall advisories in effect for the mountainous areas of Hualien and Yilan counties. Strong wind advisories are also in place for all coastal and some inland regions. In response to the impending storm, over 6,000 emergency responders have been placed on standby, and the Taiwanese defense ministry has mobilized approximately 36,000 troops across the island to ensure safety and preparedness.

Expected Impacts

• Rainfall of up to 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) is forecast for mountainous areas in eastern Taiwan.
• Destructive winds are expected along the coasts.
• Heavy rainfall is predicted throughout Thursday, including in Taipei.
• Wave heights could reach up to eight meters upon landfall.
• High risk of flash floods, storm surges, and landslides.

Work and classes have been canceled on Green Island and Orchid Island for Wednesday. In addition, ferry services have been suspended, national parks closed, and Taipei-area riversides have been shut down as a precaution. The threat of severe weather has raised concerns that trading at Taiwan’s $2.5 trillion stock exchange may also be halted. 

Regional

Kong-rey has already affected northern regions of Luzon in the Philippines, prompting evacuations. After crossing Taiwan, the typhoon is expected to weaken but may still impact eastern China. Residents across Taiwan, especially in eastern and southern regions, are urged to take immediate precautions and stay informed about the latest updates from local authorities. This potentially historic typhoon poses a significant threat to life and property across the island.

Stay tuned as we’ll keep you updated on any changes.