Typhoon Champi Grounds Flights Across East Asia

Hundreds of flights have been cancelled across Taiwan and neighbouring Japan as powerful Typhoon Champi approaches Taiwan’s east coast, bringing torrential rain and wind gusts of up to 191kph (119mph). At least one person has died in Taiwan, while authorities are evacuating residents from areas at risk of landslides.

Taiwan Braces for Powerful Winds

Typhoon Champi was weakening on Friday, 23 October, but remained dangerous as it moved close to Taiwan. Although it was not expected to make direct landfall, forecasters warned that its large size could expose much of the island to strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration said the storm was passing offshore, with its effects potentially lasting for nearly two days. The typhoon had previously reached super-typhoon strength, making it one of the Pacific’s most powerful storms this year.

Authorities warned residents to stay away from coastal areas and mountainous terrain as hazardous conditions developed.

Hundreds of Flights Cancelled

The storm has caused widespread travel disruption, with hundreds of flights cancelled across Taiwan and Japan.

Taiwan cancelled domestic services and numerous international flights, leaving thousands of passengers facing delays and disrupted travel plans. Airlines and transport authorities have also been monitoring conditions as the storm approaches.

Schools, offices and financial markets were closed across much of Taiwan on Friday. Public transport in Taipei continued operating, although some services were reduced.

The disruption extends beyond Taiwan, with flights in parts of Japan also affected by the storm.

One Person Killed as Evacuations Continue

At least one person died after being swept out to sea by powerful currents off Xiaoliuqiu, an island in Taiwan’s Pingtung County, according to local authorities.

The man, a tourist in his twenties, was reported missing on Thursday while warnings for the typhoon were in effect. Rescuers later found him in the water and attempted to revive him, but he could not be saved.

Authorities have also evacuated residents from vulnerable mountainous areas, including communities near a landslide dam on Taiwan’s north-eastern coast that could breach during heavy rainfall.

Emergency teams have been placed on alert as officials prepare for possible flooding, landslides and further disruption.

Heavy Rain Threatens Vulnerable Areas

Forecasters have warned that Champi could bring torrential rain, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding, particularly in mountainous regions.

The storm’s wide circulation means its impact could continue even without a direct hit on Taiwan. Officials have urged people to avoid exposed coastlines and follow evacuation instructions.

Japan has also faced disruption as the typhoon moves through the western Pacific, with authorities monitoring conditions around its southern islands.

Another Powerful Pacific Storm

Champi is the latest in a series of intense typhoons affecting the region. Scientists have warned that unusually warm ocean waters can provide energy for tropical storms, while the current Pacific climate pattern has raised concerns about further severe weather.

Authorities across East Asia are continuing to monitor the storm’s movement and assess the risks to residents, transport networks and infrastructure.

Although Champi has weakened from its peak intensity, officials have stressed that dangerous winds, heavy rain and coastal conditions remain serious threats.