Taiwan has suspended much of its normal activity as Typhoon Champi approaches the island, bringing powerful winds, torrential rain and the threat of flooding. Nearly 1,000 domestic and international flights have been cancelled, while schools, offices and financial markets have closed across most of the island.

Although Champi has weakened after reaching super-typhoon strength, it remains dangerous. Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration reported wind gusts of approximately 191 kilometres per hour near the storm’s centre, warning that the system could still cause severe weather even if it passes offshore.

The typhoon was moving near Taiwan on Friday, with forecasters expecting it to pass close to the northeastern coast before turning north towards China and eventually southern Japan. Authorities warned that a direct landfall could not be completely ruled out if the storm changed direction or slowed down.

One Dead as Authorities Evacuate Residents

The storm has already killed one person and injured 163 others in Taiwan, according to the latest figures reported by Reuters. Authorities have evacuated 2,639 people from mountainous areas considered vulnerable to flooding and landslides.

More than 77,000 households experienced power outages as strong winds and heavy rain battered parts of the island, although electricity had been restored to most affected homes.

Officials have urged residents to remain indoors, avoid coastal areas and stay away from mountainous terrain. Emergency teams have prepared rescue vehicles, inflatable boats and other equipment to respond to possible flooding and evacuation emergencies.

Northern mountain areas, including regions around the capital, Taipei, were forecast to receive nearly one metre of rainfall, raising concerns about flash floods and landslides.

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