Typhoon Krathon made landfall on Thursday in the major port city of Kaohsiung, with maximum sustained winds of 126 kph (78 mph) and gusts of 162 kph (101 mph).
The typhoon brought heavy rainfall to Taiwan’s eastern and southern regions for five days, leading to the evacuation of thousands from vulnerable areas prone to mudslides and landslides.
Schools and government offices were closed for two days across Taiwan, and all domestic flights were cancelled as a precaution due to Typhoon Krathon.
Residents received mobile alerts on Thursday morning urging them to seek shelter from strong winds, with gusts reaching over 166 kph (103 mph) in some areas.
The Taiwan Weather Administration warned residents in Kaohsiung and Pingtung County to stay indoors even when the eye of the storm passes, as the calm would be brief before severe weather resumes.
According to Taiwan's fire department, at least 123 people were injured, while two people lost their lives due to weather-related incidents during the typhoon.
Nearly 40,000 troops were placed on standby to assist with rescue and relief operations in affected areas.
Mountainous areas in southern Taiwan have received up to 169 cm (5.5 feet) of rain over the last five days, exacerbating the risk of landslides.
Krathon is forecast to weaken into a tropical depression by Friday as it moves north towards Taipei, although more heavy rains are expected in southern and eastern Taiwan.
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