Typhoon Champi brought Taiwan close to a standstill on Friday, October 23, as authorities prepared for potentially destructive winds and torrential rainfall. Nearly 1,000 flights were cancelled, financial markets closed and evacuations were carried out as the storm approached the island.
Although Champi weakened after briefly reaching super typhoon strength, forecasters warned that a direct landfall remained possible. Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration reported wind gusts of around 191 kilometres per hour near the storm’s centre.
The typhoon was located approximately 320 kilometres east of Taiwan’s southern tip. Its projected path indicated that it could pass close to the island’s northeast before turning north towards China’s coast and eventually moving towards southern Japan.
Nearly 1,000 Flights Cancelled, Transport Disrupted
Taiwan’s transport ministry cancelled all 262 scheduled domestic flights and 669 international flights for Friday. The island’s financial markets were also closed as authorities took precautionary measures.
The north-south high-speed rail service continued operating normally, while public transport in Taipei, including the subway, remained operational with reduced services.
The storm had already reportedly killed one person and injured 171 others in Taiwan. Nearly 1,300 people were evacuated from mountainous areas as officials prepared for flooding, landslides and prolonged strong winds.
More than 77,000 homes experienced power outages, although electricity had been restored to most affected households by the time of the report.
Authorities Prepare for Flooding and Heavy Rain
Forecasters warned that Champi’s wind radius extended approximately 320 kilometres, potentially exposing much of Taiwan to severe weather. Its effects could last nearly two days, particularly if the storm slowed down or changed direction.
Mobile phone alerts were sent to coastal communities, warning residents of gusts exceeding 150 kilometres per hour and urging them to seek shelter. Northern mountainous areas, including locations around Taipei, were forecast to receive close to one metre of rainfall.
In northeastern Yilan County, authorities distributed sandbags and placed amphibious vehicles and inflatable rescue boats on standby. Officials said military assistance could be deployed for evacuations and disaster relief if required.
Japan Also Monitors Typhoon Champi
Champi was forecast to pass over Yonaguni, Japan’s westernmost inhabited island in Okinawa Prefecture, before continuing along its projected route.
Taiwanese authorities continued monitoring the storm’s movement while preparing emergency resources and urging residents in vulnerable areas to follow official warnings.
Read more: Monitor official weather updates through the Central Weather Administration of Taiwan.
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