Taiwan Evacuates Over 60,000 as Typhoon Podul Strikes

Typhoon Evacuation Review

Local authorities confirmed that more than 5,500 individuals were moved from high‑risk zones before the cyclone hit on Wednesday.

Typhoon Podul Hits Taiwan, Disrupting Travel and Agriculture

Typhoon Podul made landfall on Taiwan’s eastern seaboard on Wednesday, prompting authorities to shut down schools and government offices. The powerful storm brought heavy rainfall that threatened agricultural losses, especially in the island’s southeastern regions.

Storm Path and Intensity

• First touched Taitung County around noon local time, then moved across the island’s southern third at approximately 36 km/h.
• The typhoon crossed the Taiwan Strait by late afternoon, heading toward mainland China.
• Despite weakening, it spread over an area of 120 km and was expected to broaden further while flowing westward.
• High waves and winds were forecasted throughout much of the southeast.

Transportation Disruptions

Nearly 400 flights—both domestic and international—were either delayed or canceled because of the storm. The transportation sector, including Taiwan’s primary international airport and high-tech manufacturing hubs, experienced significant operational limitations.

Impact on Agriculture and Infrastructure

• Typhoon‑related flooding and heavy rains have repeatedly damaged fruit crops and other cash produce.
• Some recent storms triggered landslides through Taiwan’s mountainous center.
• Current damage includes the loss of electricity in several rural communities, with repairs taking weeks to complete.

Seasonal Context

Taiwan typically faces a steady stream of tropical storms between July and October. Typhoon Podul is the island’s 11th typhoon this year, underscoring the persistent risk posed by the season.