Typhoon Koinu Strengthens, Heads Towards Taiwan
Typhoon Koinu, coming from the Pacific Ocean, is gaining power as it approaches Taiwan, according to meteorologists on the island. This tropical storm is expected to reach the Taiwanese coast by Thursday morning.
As of now, Typhoon Koinu is moving northwest with sustained winds of 89 mph and gusts of up to 112 mph, as reported by Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau. Forecasts indicate that the storm’s center will impact southern cities in Taiwan, accompanied by heavy rains on the east coast, including Taitung city.
Impact on the Philippines
Although Typhoon Koinu is not directly hitting the Philippines, the country’s weather bureau has issued storm warnings in six northern provinces. They have cautioned about potential flooding and landslides, especially in mountainous areas. The typhoon is expected to bring increased monsoon rains to other parts of the Philippines over the next three days.
Current Location and Past Incidents
As of Monday, Typhoon Koinu was situated 300 miles east of Basco town, the northernmost province of Batanes in the Philippines, near the Luzon Strait that separates the Philippines and Taiwan.
Notably, Taiwan experienced the landfall of Typhoon Haikui in early September, marking the first such occurrence in years. Although it caused damage, including uprooted trees and vehicle damage, the situation was not catastrophic, and injuries were relatively limited.
Please stay informed and take precautions as necessary as Typhoon Koinu approaches Taiwan.