Taiwan shuts schools and grounds flights as Typhoon Champi brushes by

Taiwan implemented a series of emergency measures as Typhoon Champi made its approach on Friday, closing schools and offices and grounding numerous flights. The typhoon initially reached maximum sustained winds of 298 kph (185 mph), but had significantly weakened to 155 kph (96 mph) by the time it was set to brush past the island from the southwest. With a radius of approximately 320 kilometers (200 miles), Champi's influence was large enough to potentially encompass the entirety of Taiwan.

The Central Weather Administration advised coastal residents to steer clear of outdoor activities and exercise caution around falling debris. A single fatality was reported on Thursday when a person was swept away by waves near Liuqiu, a small island off Taiwan's southeastern coast, while over 170 others sustained injuries. More than 2,600 individuals were relocated from areas susceptible to the storm's impact.

All domestic flights were suspended, amounting to 2,600 cancellations, in addition to 669 international flights grounded. High-speed rail services on the western coast continued to operate without disruptions, while in Taipei, the capital city, light rain and gusty winds were observed. Public transportation, including the subway, remained functional.

President Lai Ching-te paid a visit to the Central Emergency Operation Center in New Taipei City, situated along Taiwan's northern coastline. Experts anticipate that Champi's most significant effects would be felt as the typhoon continued its northward trajectory towards Japan's southwestern islands.