What's happened
Typhoon Kong-rey made landfall in Taiwan on November 1, 2024, causing significant damage, including two fatalities and over 500 injuries. The storm prompted widespread evacuations and closures, with authorities urging residents to stay indoors. As the typhoon moves northeast, it is expected to impact parts of China, including Zhejiang province.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, Typhoon Kong-rey was the largest storm to hit Taiwan in decades, prompting widespread evacuations and closures. Helen Davidson notes that despite the severe weather, many residents flocked to karaoke venues, a cultural phenomenon during typhoons. The Independent reported on the storm's aftermath, detailing the casualties and injuries, while also highlighting the restoration of contact with a missing Czech couple in Taroko National Park. The New York Times emphasized the storm's potential to remain a typhoon as it moves toward China, indicating ongoing risks for affected regions.
How we got here
Typhoon Kong-rey, classified as a strong typhoon, approached Taiwan after causing devastation in the Philippines. It was the largest storm to hit Taiwan in decades, prompting the government to declare a 'typhoon day' and close schools and businesses across the island.
More on these topics
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Taiwan, officially the Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. Neighbouring countries include the People's Republic of China to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south.
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Taipei, officially Taipei City, is the capital and a special municipality of Taiwan. Located in northern Taiwan, Taipei City is an enclave of the municipality of New Taipei City that sits about 25 km southwest of the northern port city of Keelung.
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The Philippines, officially the Republic of the Philippines, is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia. Situated in the western Pacific Ocean, it consists of about 7,641 islands that are broadly categorized under three main geographical divisions from