Nearly 3,000 people have been evacuated from high-risk areas in eastern Taiwan as Typhoon Haikui approaches, marking the first direct hit by a tropical storm in the region in four years. Haikui, with sustained wind speeds of around 140 kilometers per hour, is expected to make landfall in Taiwan's eastern Taitung area. Authorities have taken precautionary measures, including closing schools and offices in the southern and eastern parts of the island and canceling over 200 domestic flights.Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen has urged residents to make preparations for the typhoon and prioritize safety by avoiding risky activities and staying indoors.As of the latest reports, Haikui was located approximately 180 kilometers east of Taiwan. The Central Weather Bureau in Taiwan has warned of potential threats, including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and high waves, and has called on the public to remain vigilant.The Interior Ministry confirmed that more than 2,800 people were evacuated from seven cities in Taiwan, with the majority coming from the mountainous county of Hualien, adjacent to Taitung. Hualien's streets were deserted as it faced relentless torrential rain.The military has deployed soldiers and equipment in the areas expected to be most affected by Haikui, including amphibious vehicles and inflatable rubber boats.The last significant storm to hit Taiwan was Typhoon Bailu in 2019, which resulted in one fatality.While Haikui is expected to have less severity compared to Typhoon Saola, which bypassed Taiwan but posed a significant threat to Hong Kong and southern China, it is still essential for residents to remain cautious and take necessary precautions.
