Taiwan counts 1 dead and 527 injured after Typhoon Champi sweeps past

Taiwan implemented measures to protect citizens as Typhoon Champi passed by, resulting in the closure of schools and offices and the grounding of numerous flights. The typhoon's winds peaked at 298 kph (185 mph), but it has since weakened to 155 kph (96 mph) as it approached the island from the southwest. The typhoon's path indicates it will sweep past Taiwan's northeastern tip before moving north towards Japan's southwestern islands.

The Central Weather Administration advised residents in coastal regions to avoid outdoor activities and exercise caution around falling objects. One fatality occurred on Thursday when a person was swept away by waves in Liuqiu, a small island off Taiwan's southeastern coast. Over 170 individuals sustained injuries in the storm. More than 2,600 residents have been evacuated from vulnerable, mountainous areas.

All domestic flights, totaling 262, and 669 international flights were canceled by the transport ministry. High-speed rail services on the western coast continued to operate normally. Taipei, the capital, experienced light showers and gusty winds. Public transportation, including the subway, remained open. President Lai Ching-te visited the island's Central Emergency Operation Center in New Taipei City.

Experts anticipate the typhoon's most significant impact on Taiwan will persist through Saturday and that it will reach Japan's southern mainland by Monday. In southwestern Japan, the typhoon has injured one individual, grounded flights, and caused power outages. In Ishigaki Island, nearly 2,000 homes lost power, and numerous flights were canceled due to rough weather.

The Philippines' coast guard advised ships and ferries to stay away from the increasingly turbulent waters off several northern coastal areas, with the main domestic airport in Batanes shutting down and two local flights canceled. In Cagayan province, nearly 200 people were evacuated as a precaution, and classes were suspended for all levels in the island town of Calayan due to the typhoon.

Champi had previously affected several Pacific islands, including Guam, where a federal disaster declaration was issued.