Workers in Taiwan are working tirelessly to clean up the aftermath of Typhoon Kong-rey, which recently struck the island, resulting in two fatalities. The typhoon brought strong winds of up to 184 kilometers per hour, causing trees to fall, floods, and landslides, as well as widespread power outages.
One tragic incident involved a 48-year-old motorcyclist in Taipei who lost his life when a power pole fell on him during the storm. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing for four individuals who went missing while hunting in central Taiwan. Fortunately, two Czech hikers trapped in the Taroko Gorge were successfully rescued.
As the typhoon weakened and moved towards China, Taiwan began the process of recovery. However, nearly 100,000 households were still without power, and transportation services, such as ferry and train lines, remained disrupted. Despite the challenges, local residents and workers have been diligently clearing roads and debris to restore normalcy.
The impact of Typhoon Kong-rey was severe, with some areas experiencing over a meter of rainfall, leading to mudslides and flooding. In Toucheng town, Yilan county, mud and debris flowed through the streets, causing damage to properties. Residents in affected areas recounted their experiences of witnessing the destructive power of the storm, with some facing challenges accessing their homes due to mudslides.
In response to the disaster, communities came together to support the clean-up efforts. Workers, including a team from New Taipei City and Australian firefighter calendar models, joined forces to remove fallen trees and debris from the streets. Despite the extensive damage caused by the typhoon, the spirit of collaboration and resilience was evident among the residents and volunteers working towards recovery.
Typhoon Kong-rey serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of natural disasters and the importance of preparedness in vulnerable regions. With climate change contributing to the intensity of storms, it is crucial for authorities and communities to prioritize safety measures and response strategies to mitigate the impact of future disasters. As Taiwan continues its recovery efforts, the unity and determination of its people shine through in the face of adversity.
