Typhoon disrupts flights in Taiwan, Philippines

By Necva Tastan

ISTANBUL (AA) – Hundreds of flights have been disrupted in Taiwan and the Philippines due to Typhoon 'Gaemi', leading to the evacuation of hundreds of people in various parts of the island nation.

In New Taipei, authorities evacuated 362 residents from districts vulnerable to mudslides, according to a report by the state-run news agency, citing Mayor Hou Yu-ih.

Coastal control areas have been established along the northeast coast, with waves anticipated to reach 15 meters. Hou confirmed that 664 people observing the waves were evacuated.

The Central Weather Administration reported that Typhoon Gaemi, with a radius of 250 kilometers, was positioned about 120 kilometers southeast of Yilan County.

In the Philippines, Metro Manila is under a state of calamity due to rains and floods caused by a southwest monsoon intensified by Typhoon Carina, according to Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos, as reported by the Manila Times.

"Because of what is happening, especially in Metro Manila, our recommendation here is that we might declare a state of calamity in Metro Manila," Abalos said.

In China, heavy rains affected over 13,400 people in Longnan City, Gansu Province, with 5,622 evacuated, local authorities reported.

Additionally, Beijing announced the suspension of the Xiamen-Kinmen ferry service with Taiwan on Wednesday due to the typhoon.

Rainfall exceeding 300 millimeters from Monday to Wednesday caused mountain torrents, landslides, and mudslides, shutting down 14 highways and damaging homes and farmlands.

Four roads have since reopened, and power has been partially restored, Beijing-based CGTN reported.

Authorities initiated a Level III emergency response, with personnel on 24-hour standby to mitigate the disaster's impact.